Dr. Benishek: "Education Key To Job Growth In Northern Michigan"

Press Release

Dr. Dan Benishek (MI-01) today hosted a roundtable meeting with local business leaders and educators to discuss the importance of preparing students for 21st Century jobs.

"Giving our students a quality education is a vitally important to prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow. I know we have a lot of great teachers in Northern Michigan who are making sure students have the skills they need to enter the workforce. Today's meeting highlighted the work already being done in our area and also explored some great ideas to prepare Michigan's young people for the future," said Dr. Benishek, a surgeon from Iron River and lifelong resident of the Upper Peninsula.

The roundtable meeting, which was held at Northern Michigan University's University Center, was an informative discussion on STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math) education. The roundtable discussion provided an opportunity for area educators to share best practices of how to teach STEM concepts. The conversation also centered on ways educators and job providers can work together to better prepare students for 21st Century jobs in Northern Michigan and around the world.

"I've been travelling all over Northern Michigan and speaking with job providers to hear what they have to say. I'm often told of the important need to find employees that have the right skills and education for the jobs that are already available. That's exactly why it's so critical our students receive a top-notch education, especially in the areas of science, math and engineering," added Dr. Benishek, who sits on the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.

Participants in the discussion included representatives from Northern Michigan businesses, the Superintendent of Cheboygan, Otsego and Presque Isle Public School Districts, the Superintendent of L'Anse Public Schools, and the Principal of Menominee Catholic Central School.

"Frankly, my family didn't have much when I was growing up in Northern Michigan, but I was able to get a great education and become a doctor. I want our children and grandchildren to have that same shot at the American Dream. It all starts with a quality education," said Dr. Benishek.

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