Building a Bridge to Success

If Dennis Hardle had his way, schools would spend more time teaching students about real life skills, like how to write a resume, go on an interview and the basics of accounting. But since the Petaluma resident and organizational coach can’t change class curriculums, he’s launched Bridge to Business, a program that aims to give teens work experience and help them get jobs upon graduation.

The program, started last year, aims to be a liason between local schools and the Petaluma Chamber of Commerce, through internships, job shadowing, career forums and guest speakers.

“Businesses want students who are more trained and more aware of what their needs are,” said Hardle, a project management trainer and consultant. “This program is about getting younger students aware of what the work environment is about.”

and are already participating in the program and this year, the Petaluma campus of has been added to the mix.

“We’ve had a lot of job shadowing in the healthcare industry, but are now looking for people in other sectors,” Hardle said. “We need people who are willing to speak to students about their work, advise on senior projects or have them follow them around for half a day so they get a sense of what it’s like being in that work environment.”

Hardle is seeking professionals employed in banking, real estate, accounting, agriculture and engineering, along with media and entertainment. He is also looking for new members for the chamber’s business education committee to facilitate the program.

For more info or to get involved, contact Hardle at dennis@hardle.com