Bloom HS Pilot Program With Indiana Automotive Tech Co. Offers Students Paths Forward

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — Bloom High School and Lear Corporation Hammond are building more than a partnership — they are building pathways toward career development, opportunity, and long-term success for students interested in the skilled trades and manufacturing industries.

The LEAR Hammond–Bloom High School Partnership Pilot Program was developed through a shared vision of creating meaningful career opportunities for students whose talents and abilities extend beyond traditional college pathways. While many Bloom students pursue four-year universities, school leaders recognized the importance of also creating direct access to high-quality trade and workforce opportunities where students can thrive professionally and financially.

The idea for the partnership originated with Bloom High School Division Coordinator Diane A. Oliver, who saw value in connecting students with a respected industry leader like LEAR Hammond. Oliver envisioned a program that would expose students to real-world career experiences while simultaneously helping businesses cultivate future employees equipped with professionalism, workplace readiness, and career potential.

After developing the concept, Oliver approached Superintendent Dr. Lenell Navarre with the idea. Superintendent Navarre immediately recognized the potential impact the partnership could have on students across the district and expressed strong support for moving the initiative forward. Understanding the importance of collaboration and career readiness opportunities for students, he encouraged Oliver to partner with Dr. Gonzalez, Bloom Township’s district administrator for College and Career Readiness, to help strengthen and promote the success of the initiative.

Once Dr. Gonzalez learned more about the vision for the partnership, enthusiasm surrounding the program quickly grew.

“This partnership gives students options, exposure, and opportunities that can truly change the trajectory of their futures,” Oliver said. “We want students to understand that success can look different for everyone, and there are incredible careers available within the trade and manufacturing industries.”

Through the pilot program, students engaged in learning experiences across multiple departments within LEAR Hammond’s facility, gaining hands-on exposure to the automotive manufacturing industry. LEAR Hammond, known for manufacturing seating systems for Ford automobiles, also introduced students to the many career advancement opportunities available within the company — including pathways toward certifications, college degrees, and even master’s degree programs for employees seeking continued educational growth.

The partnership ultimately creates a win-win opportunity for both Bloom students and LEAR Hammond. Students receive valuable career exposure and workforce preparation, while LEAR has the opportunity to help develop and mentor future employees who may eventually join the company after graduation.

Bloom High School is extremely proud to recognize the students who successfully completed the LEAR Hammond Partnership Pilot Program. Throughout the experience, students demonstrated perseverance, professionalism, and commitment while representing Bloom High School with excellence.

As a result of successfully completing the program, participating students are prepared to interview with LEAR Hammond upon graduation should they choose to pursue employment with the company.

In addition to recognizing students for their completion of the program, LEAR management specifically praised participants for their professionalism, positive demeanor, respectful interactions, and strong manners throughout the experience. Their conduct made such a strong impression that LEAR representatives expressed enthusiasm about continuing and expanding the partnership with Bloom High School in the future.

The students recognized for successfully completing the pilot program are:

• Madison Johnson
• Daniel Manuel
• Aliza Lloyd
• Elijah Lloyd
• Marco Franco-Diaz
• Anthony Scott

Bloom High School looks forward to continuing this innovative partnership and expanding career-connected opportunities that prepare students not only for employment, but for long-term career success and personal growth.