A Business and Education Council is a group of representatives recognized and respected in their own fields of work who advise CTE educators and administrators regarding employment, education, training, and workforce needs or industry trends.

Council members can be a valuable resource by answering questions such as:

• Is the program curriculum addressing current industry trends and needs?

• Is the program adequately preparing students for the future job market?

• Are students given the opportunity to test for industry certifications?

• Is the program equipment reflective of industry standards?

Business and Education Councils can provide valuable insight on program activities such as:

• Offer work-based learning opportunities (on-the-job training and live work)

• Assist in promoting the program

• Assist with job placement of program graduates

• Assist students in transition to postsecondary education

• Offer advice for program growth and improvement

• Assist with keeping programs current with industry trends

• Suggest professional development activities for the instructor

Choose 5 - 12 representatives who, by position, background, experience, or training can offer input for improving your program. Select one member to serve as a chairman and one member to serve as a secretary/minutes clerk.

It is required to have one student and one parent representative for full-time programs. Consider the following types of individuals as additional council members:

• Representatives from some of the larger more established employers in industries that are relevant to your program

• Representatives from some of the smaller, fast-moving companies in industries relevant to your program

• Professionals from postsecondary institutions in your area

• High school counselors and/or instructors

• Chamber of Commerce representative(s) and/or Workforce Development Board

• Parents of former students

• Parents of current students

• Current students
  
  

Guidelines for BEC Member Selection

• Ensure that each individual listed has been personally contacted by the instructor and has agreed to serve as a member of their Business and Education Council

• Include only individuals who are willing to take an active role as a member of the Business and Education Council

• No one related to the council sponsor

• No deceased individuals

• No full-time employees or board member (the preference is to not have any paid short-term or part-time staff on the Business and Education Council)

• The same person cannot serve on two committees on the same campus

• Must include each individual's current place of employment, email address, and phone number

• Council member must still be living in your area (in extenuating circumstances, must seek approval)

• Career Connections, Counseling & Career Development, and Academics may be combined and have one BEC

• Administration and Workforce & Economic Development may be combined and have one BEC

BEC meetings are held twice a year, once in the fall semester and once in the spring semester (typically in October and April).

August of Each Year

• Finalize BEC members for the current year, and submit for approval by the Board of Education

• Make initial contact with members and secure current contact information

Three Weeks Prior to Meeting

• Set date, location and time of meetings

• Reserve a room, if needed, and make arrangements for a meal if applicable

• Send an email to congratulate council members for agreeing to serve on the business and education council and to let them know when/where the meeting will take place

• Compile handouts/folders for council members

  • Items could include: Agenda, name tags for members, program description sheets, plan of study examples, Role of the Business and Education Council info card, general information on program and campus, pen, note pad, business card(s)

Three Days Prior to Meeting

• Call or email each member with a reminder of when/where the meeting will take place

During the Meeting

• You are the host, arrive early and be prepared to greet each member

• If you are having refreshments, have them ready when members of the council arrive

• Begin and end meetings on time

• Be organized and follow the agenda

• Elect or appoint a chairperson and a secretary to take minutes

• Take pictures for social media

After the Meeting

• Publicize the meeting - send group photo to marketing team member

• Email a thank you and copy of minutes to members

• Complete the required documentation (agenda, minutes, etc.) and turn in to your campus director

• Faculty/Staff Handbook (BEC info on page 70)

• Role of the Business & Education Council information card

• Email templates

• Meeting templates (agenda, minutes, sign-in sheets)

• Equipment request and justification form