IME West 2024 Ignites Aspirations: ABC and Downey Unified Students Dive into Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing
Informa Markets and The Diversity Org host students and teachers from ABC and Downey Unified School Districts for engaging tours, demonstrations, and breakout sessions at premier advanced manufacturing event
On February 9th, 2024, engineering, Project Lead the Way, and advanced manufacturing students along with their teachers from Warren High and Downey High of Downey Unified School District, as well as Cerritos High, Gahr High, and Artesia High of ABC Unified School District, had the unique opportunity to attend Informa Markets Engineering's (IME) West 2024 at the Anaheim Convention Center. The event, organized by Informa Markets, connects professionals across five connected industries: MedTech, Packaging, Automation, Design and Manufacturing, and Plastics, offering valuable opportunities for networking, education, and innovation.
Informa Markets is a global leader in organizing B2B events and operates within a range of markets, including advanced manufacturing. They create platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate, and grow, connecting businesses and professionals through their knowledge and expertise.
Sponsored by Informa Markets and organized and delivered by The Diversity Org, the event welcomed participants from both school districts and featured a variety of engaging activities, including tours, demonstrations, Q&A, and breakout sessions. The collaboration among Downey Unified School District, ABC Unified School District, 2CPR Group, and The Diversity Org created a powerful synergy that promotes equity and empowers students to explore and pursue rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.
Joshua Pierce, Chief Executive Officer & Founder of The Diversity Org, served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event, giving an inspiring presentation about his background and the organization's mission. The Diversity Org is a global nonprofit that teaches under-resourced and minority students about obtaining corporate and high-income careers. They partner with large companies to expose students to careers they may not have known existed, participate in professional development workshops, and provide access to internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions.
Students were divided into two groups and participated in morning and afternoon breakout sessions. While one group attended the sessions, the other had the opportunity to tour the convention floor, meeting with manufacturers and industry representatives to learn about the latest innovations and career opportunities. 2CPR Group helped coordinate and plan for the schools’ attendance and led groups on the show floor.
During the tour of the convention floor, students met with manufacturers and industry representatives who introduced them to a range of manufacturing solutions and technologies that are advancing the fields of medical, aerospace, and automotive industries.
Maisha Kabir, President of Global School Partnerships, was instrumental in connecting with the districts, coordinating logistics, and hosting the students and teachers throughout the event. Lunch was also provided to the attendees, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Angela Allison, Co-Founder of 2CPR Group, expressed her enthusiasm for the impact this event had on the students: "IME West 2024 provided a phenomenal platform for students to engage directly with industry leaders and envision a future in advanced manufacturing. The collaboration between Informa Markets, The Diversity Org, 2CPR Group, Downey Unified School District, and ABC Unified School District has reinforced our commitment to enhancing educational pathways and career opportunities for these young minds."
IME West 2024 offered an unparalleled experience for the students from the five participating high schools, inspiring them to consider the vast opportunities within the advanced manufacturing industry. With the support of Informa Markets, The Diversity Org, 2CPR Group, and other partners, these students are well on their way to building successful careers and contributing to the future of manufacturing.
For more information about Informa Markets, The Diversity Org, Downey Unified School District, and ABC Unified School District, please visit their respective websites:
Informa Markets: https://www.informamarkets.com/
The Diversity Org: https://www.thediversity.org/
Downey Unified School District: https://web.dusd.net/
ABC Unified School District: https://www.abcusd.us/
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About Certification and Career Pathways Readiness Group (2CPR Group):
2CPR Group specializes in bridging the gap between education and industry, emphasizing business development facilitation. Our expertise spans career pathway project development, audit preparation for federal, state, and district programs, certification solution design, grant writing and execution, as well as CTE and academic professional development. Highly skilled in industry outreach, we organize field trips, industry advisory boards, site visits, tours, and more to further build connections between industry and education.
At 2CPR Group, we are committed to fostering mutually advantageous relationships that drive growth and success for both education and industry partners. If you are interested in our services, please contact us.
