Spring Break
WCC BPA meets former Gov. Engler at DEC
Issue date: 10/20/08 Section: Inside WCC
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Washtenaw Community College Business Professionals of America (BPA) students attended the Oct. 13 meeting of the Detroit Economic Club at Cobo Hall in Detroit. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation sponsored the students' lunch.
The students attended a reception before the luncheon where they met the speaker, former Gov. John Engler. They were able to ask questions of the governor who is now the president of The National Association of Manufacturers, the largest industry trade group in America, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states.
The topic for the event: "New Leadership for America - What Does it Mean for U.S. Manufacturing?" was extremely timely and engaging for the students in the current economic and political environment.
During the reception, Robert Anthony the president of the WCC Chapter of BPA asked Engler, "how did the Big 3 get so far behind in innovation and revenue growth?"
Engler highlighted a variety of issues that are facing U.S. manufacturers. He was optimistic, but he noted that the lack of leadership and flexible response were key issues plaguing the American automakers. During his keynote speech, Engler applauded the presidential candidates and the Michigan delegation of elected officials who for the $700 billion dollar rescue plan.
The event was a good experience for WCC future business leaders. After the introduction of students and their respective schools, Mr. Engler noted the innovative approaches he remembered WCC taking in its K-12 relationships when he was governor. He also included WCC in his speech when he talked about the importance of education for the future leadership of our country.
The WCC BPA students will be attending another Detroit Economic Club luncheon on Dec. 2, when Chad Holiday, the CEO of Dupont will be speaking.
Business Professionals of America is the leading CTSO (Career Technical Student Organization) for students pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology and other related career fields.
BPA has more than 51,000 members in more than 2,300 chapters in 23 states. The WCC Chapter of BPA has approximately 10 active members and they are focusing on career development and community service this year as well as competing in the state and national BPA competitions. The club meets every Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. in BE172.
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