Our program for February 23 - Job Shadow!!!

Today was Job Shadow Day – always a highlight of our Rotary year.  Special thanks to Chuck Yuncker, the principal organizer, who was ably assisted by a number of Rotarians.  Chuck began by giving credit to the Rotarian drivers today, including Wendy Pazen, Bill Spellman, Tom Swan, Pete Gallagher, Harriet Clune and Rich Stewart.  Chuck went on to introduce the Job Shadow program and explained how important it is for students.  By visiting a job site and talking with people, students can see what work in that field is all about.  For some, it will affirm their plans, but others may decide to look for another career.

Joel Levin, librarian at Buena, took his students to the Rubicon Theater Company.  Students said they learned what all is involved in putting together a show.  They saw the business side, production side and artistic side.  The actor in the current one-may play spent some time with them.  They were impressed he had done so much homework reading background material, including a couple dozen books plus personal interviews.

Missy Phelan, returning for about her 8th year, took her students on the Sheriff’s ride-along program.  Students learned what the officers can and cannot do, their jurisdictional limits, and what is required for the field.  Their day was not over, as they would go through “simulation training” at the Academy that afternoon.

Dawn Maloney’s students went to the Oxnard Airport.  Students were impressed by the teamwork shown in air tower operations.  One of the students wants to be a pilot.   Another, after hearing about the fire protection services, thinks she may want to be a firefighter.

Roice Bassett took his students to Fast Undercar and the County Fire Maintenance facility.  Undercar is a parts distributor that began with one store in town.  At the County facility, students were shown how the County will fabricate and custom design anything for the fire trucks.

Kim Hazen took over a dozen students to Community Memorial Hospital to see various departments and talk to personnel.  Students mentioned the radiology department and 3D imaging technology and physical therapy department.

Danelle Williams and Jan Coultas had a new gig – they took a few students to Rancho Oso, a guest ranch with horses.  The students commented about the variety of equipment needed.  Horses are not just for riding, but horsemanship can be a way of life for those working on a ranch.  One student is interested in being a veterinarian.

Thanks to the teachers, the Rotarians who participated, and especially Chuck Yuncker for making this another great experience.