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Recently a select group of the Niswonger Foundation’s CareerConnect students, known as Explorers, gathered for a special opportunity to meet two regional business leaders and learn about their journeys to career success.

The students were joined by Marlin White, President of Chasan Industrial Complex, Greeneville; and Scott M. Niswonger, local businessman, philanthropist, Chairman and Founder of the Niswonger Foundation.

The CareerConnect program serves selected students in high schools in Greeneville City, Greene County, Carter County and Washington County.

This workforce readiness and career exploration initiative is designed to provide students the opportunity to explore career paths, develop essential skills for workforce success, and gain real-world work experiences.

There are currently 275 students participating in this workforce readiness program.

Marlin White became a contributor to the success of CareerConnect when he learned of the program’s focus on building a strong workforce and providing students with excellent training for their future careers.

As he and Niswonger addressed the students, they shared the experiences that put them on the path to success.

The students were provided with their best advice, including learning from mistakes, taking risks, the importance of seeking mentors and effective role models, and not to be afraid of hard work.

The students were given an opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts and experiences.

The stimulus for the development of this program was a desire on the part of Niswonger Foundation Board Member and Greeneville business leader, John Tweed, to provide an opportunity for students to develop essential skills for workforce success. He recognized the importance of hands-on experiences earlier in life.

The initial support for the CareerConnect program came as a contribution from Tweed.