Youth Workforce Development

Our Purpose

Through career exposure, employment, skills development training, and collaborative partnerships, the Dinwiddie Youth Workforce Development Initiative (YWDI) aims to provide youth with knowledge and experiences that lead to sustainable, fulfilling careers and build a healthy, prosperous community.

Our Goals

• Develop leadership skills

• Develop and strengthen career competencies

• Provide networking and employment opportunities

• Provide an opportunity to extend and supplement education beyond traditional limitations

• Engage regional employers in preparing tomorrows workforce

• Crate a pipeline of students prepared for quality employment

Government Day (Fall and Spring Semester)

Hosted by Dinwiddie County Administration in collaboration with the Board of Supervisors, Dinwiddie High School’s senior government classes join the Board of Supervisors and the County administration staff for lunch followed by a reenactment of a typical board meeting or budget workshop. Through this fun and engaging forum, students experience how regulatory decisions are made on a local level. Experience gained from this exercise is integrated into the classroom curriculum.

Teen Staff Program (November – June)

The Teen Staff Program is a one (1) academic school year intensive, paid, job readiness program intended to provide quality real-world experience that will give youth a reliable base of experience and professional development training to help further their employment and education goals. Open currently, enrolled Dinwiddie juniors and seniors ages 16+, participants must be enrolled in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course and have Cooperative Education and/or Early Release to receive course credit. All participants are required to interview for consideration.

Summer Work-Based Learning (July – August)

Dinwiddie Students have an opportunity to work for up to eight (8) weeks within an environment that provides quality employment and exposure to professional development training. Students will gain real-world experience and skill-sets to assist in preparation for career development and resume building. Many students have received part-time jobs as result of this unique opportunity! Open to youth ages 14-19 currently enrolled in grades 8-12 at a DCPS school or affiliate. Students must be in good academic standing to qualify for this program. (Stipend funded, the amount may vary)

Career Launch (December – June)

This exciting and interactive all-inclusive multipart series is a job and college readiness program for Dinwiddie County youth ages 14-18. This program is designed to prepare youth for future employment and higher education through a variety of workshops focusing on conducting a job search, resume development, effective communication, interviewing skills and college preparation. Students will obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to be competitive in today’s job market. Successful completion of all workshops will provide students the first opportunity to compete for summer employment.

Career Exposure Series (Dates Vary)

The Career Exposure series is an engaging and interactive series of events to include Industry Day, Job Shadowing Day, Direct Hiring, and Career Adventurers. These events provide students of Dinwiddie County Public Schools the opportunity to engage and network with regional business leaders and industry representatives while also providing the ability to explore career opportunities that align with their personal career interests through on-site visits.

Annual Dinwiddie Teen Expo (April)

Dinwiddie Middle and High School students engage with event lecturers and exhibitors on wellness and professional development topics, including discussions on healthy living, making good choices, and what steps to follow in preparation for higher education and their career of choice. Teen attendees have the first opportunity to meet with potential employers exhibiting on-site, apply for summer jobs, and initiate the process for participating in the Summer Work-Based Learning Program. The event culminates with a two-hour outdoor funfest that includes prize giveaways, gaming stations, and other fun outdoor activities.

Summer Employment and Internship Opportunities

The Dinwiddie Economic Development Department has developed relationships with existing industries in the region that are committed to supporting the success of Dinwiddie’s youth. Through these relationships, we have established opportunities exclusive for Dinwiddie Students. Please see the contact page to get in touch with us on employment and internship opportunities.

Contact Us

For additional information about Youth Workforce Development Initiative programs or to inquire about sponsorship and hosting students please contact:

Quinell Henderson, Youth Workforce Development Manager

Qhenderson@Dinwiddieva.us | 804-469-4500 ext.2154

14010 Boydton Plan Road | Dinwiddie, VA. | 23841

Facebook – Dinwiddie County Economic Development

Twitter & Instagram: @DinwiddieWorks