Lead The Way Kicks Off Summer with Ready 2 Earn Orientations

Earlier this month, Lead The Way hosted three summer work orientations on May 6, 13, and 14, successfully placing more than 200 youth into high-quality summer work experiences. Through the Ready 2 Earn and WEX programs, students secured positions in career pathways such as IT, STNA, Phlebotomy, Cosmetology, Engineering, Manufacturing, Logistics, Real Estate, Accounting, and more. Over the summer, participants will gain valuable hands-on work experience while also working toward Pre-Apprenticeship Seals and Industry-Recognized Credentials that strengthen their postsecondary and employment prospects.

These orientations would not have been possible without the dedication of LTW staff, who put in extra hours to ensure each event ran smoothly and every young person felt welcomed and prepared. Lead The Way also extends heartfelt thanks to the families who attended, reinforcing our shared commitment to excellence and opportunity.

A special thank you goes to our financial literacy partners—Wright Patt Credit Union, Heartland Bank, and Fifth Third Bank—for being on-site to support youth and families. Their presence helped students better understand banking, budgeting, and the importance of smart financial decisions as they step into the world of work.