Grand Haven High School students had the opportunity to explore future career paths and connect with local employers this week as GHHS hosted the annual BOOMERANG career exploration event on Tuesday, October 13.
The event brought together nearly 50 businesses representing a wide range of industries across Northwest Ottawa County, giving GHHS juniors and seniors the chance to learn more about career opportunities available right here in their own community.
BOOMERANG also welcomes students from Spring Lake and Allendale public schools, along with students from Careerline Tech Center, making it an opportunity for young people from across the region to connect with local employers.
Throughout the event, students had the chance to speak directly with professionals, ask questions, and explore careers in fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, skilled trades, technology, construction, and more. These conversations help students better understand the education, skills, and experiences that can prepare them for life after high school.
Keeping Local Talent Connected to Our Community
BOOMERANG began in 2008 as an initiative of the 2007-2008 Leadership Connect class, part of a community leadership development program offered by the Grand Haven Area Chamber of Commerce. Leadership Connect brings together professionals from across the region to develop leadership skills, learn about local challenges and opportunities, and explore ways to strengthen their community.
The idea behind BOOMERANG was to help young people recognize the many career opportunities available in Northwest Ottawa County, a goal that remains central to the event today.
The concept behind the name is simple. While students may leave the area to pursue college, technical training, or other educational experiences, there are opportunities for them to return and build successful careers close to home.
The event also helps local employers connect with the next generation of workers, introducing students to businesses and industries they may not have previously considered.
Connecting Classroom Learning with Future Opportunities
For GHHS students, BOOMERANG offers a valuable opportunity to see how their interests, skills, and classroom learning can connect to real-world careers.
Experiences like these support GHAPS' commitment to rigorous, relevant, and engaging learning by helping students explore possibilities for their futures and make informed decisions about their next steps after graduation.
Thank you to the Grand Haven Area Chamber of Commerce, participating businesses, and community partners who help make BOOMERANG possible each year, along with the GHHS staff who support this opportunity for our students.
