At Shockey Consulting, we understand the power of early exposure to diverse career paths. It’s a belief that has shaped not just our community outreach, but also our own team. Take, for example, Grant Mayfield, our newest management consultant. Grant’s journey with Shockey began long before his first day on the job. As the son of our former accountant, he often accompanied his mom to work, sitting in on public meetings and absorbing the ins and outs of local government as a grade schooler. His curiosity and eagerness to learn about the world around him set him on a path that led to a career in local government and now consulting.
This story isn’t unique to Grant. April Snay and Grant Lang, two of Shockey’s urban planners, spoke at Cristo Rey Kansas City High School’s career day. One student was very interested in urban planning. This high school student will shadow us, offering a firsthand look at the critical urban planning projects shaping our region. This student’s experience will go beyond the classroom, providing invaluable insights into a field they might not have considered otherwise.
By introducing young people to different careers early on, we not only help them discover their passions but also ensure a future workforce that is well-informed, diverse, and ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. At Shockey Consulting, we’re proud to play a part in this journey.
How are You Involving Young People in Government?
Tell us how you are involving youth in government! There are several benefits that extend beyond the individual and positively impact communities and the future of governance.
Here are five key benefits:
1. Fresh Perspectives and Innovative Ideas: Young people bring new viewpoints and creative solutionsto the table, often challenging traditional approaches. Their fresh ideas can lead to innovative strategies for addressing local issues and improving community services.
2. Sustainable Community Engagement: Engaging youth in local government careers helps build a pipeline of future leaders who are already invested in their communities. This engagement ensures that local governance remains vibrant and responsive to the evolving needs ofthe community.
3. IncreasedCivic Responsibility: Early involvement in local government fosters a sense of civic duty and responsibility in young people. This helps cultivate informed and engaged citizens who are more likely to participate in democratic processes and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
4. Enhanced Diversity and Inclusion: Involving youth from diverse backgrounds in local government careers promotes inclusivity and representation. It ensures that the voices and concerns of younger generations and underrepresented groups are heard and addressed in policymaking.
5. Skill Development and Career Growth: Early exposure to local government careers allows young people to develop critical skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are valuable in any career and provide a strong foundation for future professional growth, whether they continue in public service or pursue other fields.