Launched in 2011, the NC New Schools/Breakthrough Learning Industry Innovation Councils convene more than 75 companies and organizations to accelerate innovation in public education. In 2014, the Industry Innovation Councils transitioned to a regional structure beginning with the establishment of the Triangle-area and Charlotte-area councils. These regional councils consist of industry and higher education professionals from many sectors including: health, life sciences, energy, sustainability, biotechnology, information technology, advanced manufacturing, analytics and agriscience. Members of the councils range from mid-career professionals to senior executives.
The Industry Innovation Councils members work with educators to develop best practices for career readiness and workforce development. Council members connect with educators such as career development coordinators, CTE directors, and principals at meetings. During the gatherings company representatives give presentations, discuss challenges to address, and brainstorm new ideas. Leaders from education related intermediaries also participate and work together with industry professionals to develop solutions.
Presentations and Discussions
- Best practices in teacher externships by NIEHS and LORD Corporation
- Developing innovative business practices by Ingersoll Rand
- Project based learning at the Charlotte Engineering Early College
- Organizing regional STEM Industry Days for educators, by Wake Ed Partnership
- Developing industry based performance tasks, by NC New Schools/Breakthrough Learning
Initiatives
- Council members provide resources and capacity building on starting and maintaining school based business advisory boards.
- Creation and support of the Innovation Challenge provides students opportunities to create solutions to real problems
- Council members serve as speakers and concurrent session leaders at statewide professional development events for educators (Scaling STEM Conference and Summer Institute)
Interested in joining a council or would like more information, contact Darrel Kain at dkain@ncnewschools.org.
