COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (July 16, 2012) — Today’s high school education goes far beyond “The Three R’s,” as globalization puts even greater importance on the role logistics plays in today’s economy. As part of Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools’ “Academies of Nashville” program, teachers from Hillsboro High School participated in a teacher externship at Averitt’s Cookeville headquarters to learn more about this expanding career path.
The four educators from Hillsboro High School spent the day observing the “behind-the-scenes” strategy the full-service transportation provider uses to provide a variety of solutions to its customers. The group toured the corporate headquarters, spending time with experienced industry veterans who oversee Averitt’s supply chain solutions, truckload, expedited, international and customer service operations, while also learning about local pickup and delivery at the Cookeville service center.
“We’re happy to provide educators with hands-on experience they can share with their students about how the transportation and supply chain management industry works,” said Elise Leeson, Averitt’s director of human resources. “Through programs like this, today’s students will gain the set of skills they need to be well-prepared for their careers. Logistics is an exciting and challenging career field, and we’re honored to partner with schools helping to shape tomorrow’s workforce.”
The Academies of Nashville program provides students with hands-on learning in a project-based educational environment. The Hillsboro High School Academy of International Business and Communications is the only academy program that provides a global logistics track.
Participating in the externship program is just one way Averitt supports education. In addition to sponsoring athletics, music and other extracurricular programs at Upper Cumberland elementary, middle and high schools, Averitt also works closely with Tennessee Tech University through an internship program and with financial support.
