students pose for a photo at the end of the first Industry Recognized Credentials conference

MANCHESTER – Schools were quiet last week for spring break, but at Manchester School of Technology, a group of students was hard at work building skills and making career connections. Fifteen students took part in the first Industry Recognized Credentials conference, a partnership between Manchester School District and Manchester Proud. 

An industry recognized credential is a certificate that shows you’ve demonstrated knowledge in a specific subject area. These can help you stand out to prospective employers, whether you’re looking for a summer job or to start your career. Students spent several days learning before taking the credential tests, and closed the week with a luncheon with community partner organizations who shared job and career opportunities. 

“Manchester School District is stronger when our community invests in our students – this event is a perfect example of what can happen when we bring community and business partners to the table,” Superintendent Jennifer Gillis told students and partners at the luncheon. 

All students who participated in the conference earned credentials in adult and infant CPR, AED use, and customer service. In addition, students received support in building or updating resumes and worked in Xello, our career pathways tool. 

Participation in the program was strong enough that the organizers – Jillian Corey, the District’s high school curriculum coordinator, and Aimee Kereage, Manchester Proud’s community partnerships coordinator – have already begun planning another edition. We’ll share as soon as we have more information. 

“IRC CON was created based on interest from students in gaining new skill sets and feedback from community partners about what they value in employees,” Corey said. “It was a great event due to the engagement of our students. Plans are in the works for the next conference.”

This conference was made possible thanks to a grant from NHLI – Out of School Time Career Pathways. NHCPR LLC led the sessions on CPR and AED usage, and District teacher Michelle Strout led the customer service training. We’d also like to thank representatives from the organizations that joined us for a luncheon at the close of the conference. These organizations include:

  • New Hampshire Catholic Charities

  • Manchester’s 21st Century program

  • The Granite YMCA

  • Elliot Hospital 

  • Manchester Parks and Recreation