Stepping Up Newsletter---STEP & Partner Highlights

Stepping Up Newsletter

Employer in the Foyer Sparks Meaningful Career Connections

Wendy Cox from Town of Tarboro speaking with students from Tarboro High School

Students from Nash Central High School explore healthcare opportunities through ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital

Strategic Twin-Counties Education Partnership (STEP) is thrilled to announce the success of this year's Employer in the Foyer, which had over 1000 high school students, from 8 different schools and 24 employers in attendance.

The initiative, designed to introduce students to local career opportunities, gave students the chance to meet face-to-face with company representatives, hand out resumes, and ask real-world questions about career pathways. Employers shared information about their organizations, open positions, and the skills they seek in future talent.

“This year was great! I got a lot of traffic at all the schools,” said Wendy Cox from the Town of Tarboro. “So far, I have received applications for our part-time positions in Parks & Recreation. The STEP personnel is always a big help with answering all our questions or concerns. I hope we have this again next year. Thanks so much for including the Town of Tarboro.”

First-time attendee, Shay Allen, Mobile Boutique Program Manager from Dress for Success says, "Being able to serve the young ladies was an absolute pleasure. Knowing we are a part of their future is why Dress for Success Triangle exists...to empower women in every walk of life."

STEP Welcomes Joshua O'Neil

STEP is excited to announce Joshua O'Neil as our Work-Based Learning Coordinator!

Joshua is a Nash County local who has worked with teens and young adults for most of his career. He has worked in wilderness therapy, helping troubled teens and young adults in crisis manage their time in an uncomfortable and unfamiliar environment. He has also worked with vulnerable populations including refugees, those with developmental disorders, as well as people who live with mental illness by helping them navigate the complex social services systems of federal, state and local programs.

Astemo Interns Hired Full-Time

On May 15, 2025, Astemo and STEP staff came together to celebrate the full-time promotion of 3 interns, Hezekiah Perry, Demario Whitaker and Marvon Richardson. Each intern successfully finished the STEPS4GROWTH program, earned credentials and completed a paid internship.

Students@Work:Twin Counties aims to connect local businesses with high school students, providing valuable Work-Based Learning opportunities. Through funding provided by the Golden LEAF Foundation, we strive to bridge the gap between education and real-world experience by facilitating meaningful partnerships that empower students to gain practical skills, explore career paths, and enhance their employability. Simultaneously, we offer businesses the chance to mentor and shape the next generation of talented professionals while benefiting from fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Through our platform, we foster mutually beneficial relationships that contribute to the growth and success of both students and businesses within our community.

Upcoming Events

Be Pro Be Proud (Sep. 23-26)

Be Pro Be Proud is an initiative led by the N.C. Home Builders Educational and Charitable Foundation, leading the movement to bring a new generation of pride, progress & professionals to North Carolina's skilled workforce.

The Be Pro Be Proud truck has a variety of profession simulations including, electrician, welding, plumbing, truck driving and more.