Jennifer Polz, Executive Director, SkillsUSA Minnesota

Jennifer Polz

Brooklyn Center, Minn.

Executive Director, SkillsUSA Minnesota

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who is an Influencer? Individuals who take actions to make a difference in the strength, well-being and success of their communities.   Parents, coaches, teachers, counselors, community leaders and others to whom young people turn when making major decisions about their futures.

 

Please tell us a little about yourself. 

I currently serve as the executive director for SkillsUSA Minnesota. SkillsUSA is a student organization serving high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled, and service occupations, including health occupations. SkillsUSA connects our industry and education partners and provides quality education experiences for students in leadership, teamwork, citizenship, and character development.

 

 

How did you become involved with the U.S. Army? 
For the past few years, I have worked with the U.S. Army Recruiting Command (USAREC) Battalion Commander at the local and state level.

In the early stages of our partnership, we worked together to build a framework that focused on leadership and skills development, which we both agreed and identified were qualities necessary for a lifetime of success in SkillsUSA and the Army. We started with our leadership conference and have now branched out to larger venues that include more Soldiers who support the mission on all levels and are state conference participants. I have developed a very strong relationship and partnership with our local recruiting battalion and we welcome the Army to our SkillsUSA events.

 

 

Why do you think the Army is a good partner for you community?

I believe the Army continues to be a good partner in the community by always giving. The Army is simply Army Strong, which means the men and women who serve our country and communities are always willing to give back in the time of need or in harm’s way. I look at the Army much in the same way as members of SkillsUSA – as leaders who always give back to their communities who serve in different ways, small or big.

Both organizations are very giving. The partnership between SkillsUSA and the Army is a great collaboration between two contributors who focus on education, leadership, and students.

 

 

What has been your most interesting or memorable experience or interaction with the U.S. Army since you have become involved?

Soldiers are great role models to SkillsUSA students and advisors. The Soldiers displayed great enthusiasm and leadership at this year’s state leadership and skills conference. The entire crowd interacted and sang along with Lieutenant Colonel John M. Hinck, who was this year’s keynote speaker. In addition, it was amazing to see the smiles, laughter, and cheers throughout the conference! There is nothing like kicking-off the conference with a rousing start.

I will always remember two words Lt. Col. Hinck said, which the students repeated throughout the conference. He would chant, “Army Strong,” and the SkillsUSA conference attendees would chant in response, “Champion Strong!” Our slogan is, “SkillsUSA: Champions at Work.” As an executive director of SkillsUSA Minnesota, we are “Champion Strong!”

 

 

Why do you feel the military should be considered a viable post-secondary option?

Career and technical education (CTE) can be a key pathway to success for many students. CTE focuses on education, training, and leadership development as a path towards a post-secondary education – whether it is through career exploration, Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) programs, or SkillsUSA programs. CTE helps create a skilled workforce and provides students with the skills and leadership training to excel in their ongoing education.