SOAR program builds Montgomery County workforce

**Montgomery County’s SOAR Program Aims to Keep Local Talent Home, Expanding to Junior High**

**CONROE, TX –** The future workforce of Montgomery County took center stage last Tuesday, October 17, 2023, as Dr. Jennifer Stevens, Vice President of Education and Workforce Development for the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, presented an insightful overview of the Chamber’s vital SOAR program to the Conroe Noon Lions Club.

SOAR, which stands for Student Opportunities, Awareness & Resources, is a dynamic initiative designed to bridge the gap between local high school students and the diverse career paths and businesses thriving within Montgomery County. Launched in 2022, the program addresses the critical challenge of retaining local talent by showcasing the wealth of professional opportunities available right in students’ own backyard.

“Our goal with SOAR is simple but powerful: we want to ensure that Montgomery County students understand the incredible opportunities awaiting them here at home,” Dr. Stevens explained to the Lions Club members. “By connecting them directly with local businesses and industries, we’re not just guiding them toward a career; we’re cultivating our future workforce and strengthening our community’s economic vitality.”

The SOAR program achieves this through a series of engaging, hands-on facility tours and informational sessions. These experiences offer students a tangible glimpse into various careers across sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and professional services, helping them envision their place within the county’s vibrant business landscape.

Since its inception, the program has made significant strides. SOAR has successfully hosted 16 distinct events, engaging approximately 1,200 students from seven different school districts across Montgomery County. This impressive reach has been made possible through the collaboration of 13 dedicated business partners who have opened their doors and shared their expertise with the next generation.

Looking ahead, Dr. Stevens announced exciting plans for the program’s expansion. Next year, in 2024, SOAR aims to broaden its reach even further by including junior high students. This proactive step will introduce career awareness at an earlier age, fostering informed decision-making and long-term interest in local opportunities.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, through programs like SOAR, plays a pivotal role in the region’s economic development by fostering connections between education and industry. The Conroe Noon Lions Club, known for its long-standing commitment to community service and youth development, regularly hosts speakers who highlight initiatives crucial to the county’s well-being.

Businesses interested in becoming SOAR partners or learning more about how to engage with Montgomery County’s future workforce are encouraged to visit the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce website at [www.mccofc.com](http://www.mccofc.com) or contact their education and workforce development department directly.