The Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program: A Foundation for Future Entrepreneurs

Discovering Future Business Leaders at the CEO Trade Show in Collinsville

On a cloudy Sunday afternoon at the Old Herald Brewery & Distillery in Collinsville, the future of business and entrepreneurship was vibrant and palpable. The venue played host to the annual trade show of the Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program, an event that showcased not only the innovative business projects of local high school students but also their journey towards becoming the next generation of entrepreneurs. This unique gathering was more than a display of products and services; it was a celebration of youthful ambition and the community’s investment in nurturing future leaders. As I walked through the bustling aisles, engaging with the enthusiastic young presenters, it became evident that this program was a cornerstone in building a bridge between education and real-world business experience.

Nurturing Future Leaders in the Collinsville-Triad Area and Beyond

The Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program is a distinctive educational initiative designed to immerse high school students from the Collinsville, Triad, Maryville, and Highland areas in the intricacies of real-world business. Sponsored by the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship, this program extends beyond traditional classroom walls to offer a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that prepares students for entrepreneurial success.

Structured as a year-long course, the CEO program meets five days a week, with each session lasting 90 minutes. This rigorous schedule is designed to mimic the real demands of the business world, instilling in students a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of business dynamics. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics from economic principles and business planning to professional networking and strategic thinking.

Practical Business Training from Local Leaders and Business Owners

What sets the CEO program apart is its innovative approach to the classroom setting. Instead of confining learning to a conventional environment, the program uses the community as its classroom. Sessions are hosted at various local businesses, where students engage directly with business owners and learn firsthand about the challenges and triumphs of running a company. This exposure not only provides practical knowledge but also fosters important relationships within the local business community.

Hands-On Learning

Central to the program’s philosophy is the belief that education should be actionable and directly applicable. As such, students are not just taught theoretical aspects of business; they are required to start and run their own business ventures. From developing business ideas to executing marketing strategies and managing finances, students get a comprehensive entrepreneurial education that culminates in an actual business launch.

Through this immersive approach, the Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program not only educates but also transforms students into confident, capable young entrepreneurs ready to contribute innovatively to their communities and the broader economic landscape.

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs: Experience in the Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program

The recent trade show held at the Old Herald Brewery & Distillery showcased a variety of businesses launched by these enterprising students. Each venture not only reflects the program’s influence on these young minds but also highlights their personal growth and professional development. We spoke with a few of the students present at the Trade Show.

Cole McClusky, Lone Lamb Project

Cole McClusky‘s Lone Lamb Project is an athletic clothing line that merges his faith with his entrepreneurial spirit. Cole has boldly integrated his faith into his business model, donating proceeds to support a Christian prison ministry and a Christian recovery ministry locally. This initiative reflects the program’s emphasis on ethical business practices and community service. Cole credits the CEO program with helping him understand the importance of starting a business that reflects his passions and values.

Ben Simpkins, Simpkins Detailing

Benjamin Simpkins shared his entrepreneurial journey with Simpkins Detailing, a mobile auto detailing service that offers the flexibility he is seeking in a career. The CEO program helped him pair with a mentor and realize the practical aspects of business management and customer service, essential skills for any successful venture.

Blase Kurwicki, Pro Ball Apparel

Blase Kurwicki from Pro Ball Apparel shared how the program exceeded his expectations by fostering personal growth and business acumen. His participation not only enhanced his entrepreneurial skills but gives him a way to share proceeds with the Special Olympics – an organization whose mission he is passionate about supporting.

Jacqueline Hernandez-Mendoza, Jackie’s Treats

Jacqueline Hernandez launched Jackie’s Treats, specializing in gourmet confections like chocolate-covered strawberries and cake pops. Jacqueline’s venture into the food industry is has taught her a lot about preparation and hard work – skills that will serve her well as she seeks to attend law school in the future.

Jonathan “Jack” Meyer, Beyond the Diploma Podcast

Jack Meyer is the voice behind the “Beyond the Diploma” podcast, where he interviews various professionals to help peers navigate career choices. This initiative is particularly reflective of the CEO program’s focus on practical learning experiences and real-world applications. Jack started the topical podcast after thinking about the problem facing him – what to do with his life and his future direction. His podcast is born out of a desire to provide answers for people his age asking the same questions.

Olivia Kohler, Pickleball Paradise

Olivia Kohler’s Pickleball Paradise taps into the growing popularity of pickleball, offering innovative products like the Pickle Belt. Olivia’s entrepreneurial venture is a prime example of how the program encourages students to identify and capitalize on emerging market trends.

Jacob Lewis, Scoops by Jake

Jacob Lewis turned a casual conversation into a new business with Scoops by Jake, where he crafts and sells homemade ice cream. His story is a testament to the program’s emphasis on seizing opportunities and transforming simple ideas into viable businesses.

These students, through their diverse ventures, exemplify the core objectives of the Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program: to educate, inspire, and transform. Each student’s contribution is another chapter of this program’s success story, illustrating how targeted education and community support can foster a new generation of innovative leaders ready to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Through this program, students not only learn how to start a business but also how to think creatively and work collaboratively, essential skills for any future endeavor.

Building a Stronger Community: How You Can Support the Collinsville Triad Maryville CEO Program

The success of the Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program hinges not only on the enthusiastic participation of its students but also on the robust support from the community. As this program continues to inspire and cultivate young entrepreneurs, there are numerous opportunities for local businesses, professionals, and community members to get involved and contribute to shaping the business leaders of tomorrow.

Mentorship Opportunities

One of the most direct ways to contribute is through mentorship. Local business leaders can share their knowledge and experience by mentoring students, providing them with insights into the realities of running a business. Mentors help guide the students through their entrepreneurial journey, offering advice on everything from business planning to strategic decision-making. If you have expertise in areas such as marketing, finance, operations, or any other relevant field, your guidance could be invaluable.

Business Partnerships

The CEO program thrives on the involvement of local businesses. By offering your place of business as a venue for the program, you provide students with a unique learning environment that goes beyond the traditional classroom. These partnerships are crucial as they allow students to understand the day-to-day workings of various industries and see first-hand the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

Financial Support

Investing in the CEO program is investing in the future of your community. Businesses and individuals can contribute financially to the program, which helps in covering operational costs such as materials, transportation, and other resources needed to facilitate the program effectively. These contributions ensure the sustainability and expansion of the program, allowing it to reach more students and have a greater impact.

Participate in Events

Attending events like the annual student-led trade show not only supports the students but also provides community members with a closer look at the innovative projects developed by these young entrepreneurs. These events offer excellent networking opportunities and foster stronger connections between students and the business community.

Share Expertise

If you’re skilled in areas such as legal matters, web development, graphic design, or public relations, offering your services can greatly benefit student projects. Helping students navigate the complexities of these aspects can significantly impact the success of their ventures.

Why Help?

Supporting the CEO program means contributing to the development of a vibrant, innovative, and skilled workforce that will drive the local economy forward. It’s an investment in creating a nurturing environment where young talent can bloom into successful entrepreneurs.

By getting involved with the CEO program, you’re not just helping students—you’re helping shape the future of your community. Whether through mentorship, financial support, or sharing your professional expertise, your involvement makes a significant difference in the lives of these young entrepreneurs.

Get Involved

If you’d like to get involved as a supporter, mentor, investor, student, or if you have questions about the program please reach out to:

• Wendy Symer
  Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program Board Chair
  618-531-0080
  [email protected]

Wendy would also like everyone to know all interested parties are invited to attend the CEO Program Graduate Celebration Breakfast. If you are interesting in supporting or getting involved please make plans to attend:

Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO
Graduate Celebration Breakfast
Tuesday May 21st
9AM to 10:30AM
Truck Centers Gazebo
2280 Formosa Rd, Troy, IL

For more information:

• Visit the Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO website.
• Follow Collinsville Triad Maryville & Highland CEO Program on Facebook.