This month, Mesquite High School students engaged in activities that connected classroom learning with career skills through collaborations with local businesses and organizations. The school facilitated hands-on experiences aimed at helping students understand how their studies can be applied to real-world job settings.
One such event was the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce’s Interview Competition, which included participation from Financial Literacy and Government classes. The competition simulated a professional hiring process using elimination rounds and one-on-one interviews for the finalists. A panel of 20 judges with professional experience evaluated participants, providing feedback intended to mirror actual job interviews.
Lizzy, a junior at Mesquite High School who took part in the event, said, “I have never interviewed, so this was my first experience. It helped with nerves, and I got good feedback, preparing us to be ready for the real world.”
Nicole Charmoli, Foundation and Community Impact Manager for the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, commented on the program’s impact: “gives students opportunities to practice skills and gain experience in how to interview – and connects business leaders to our upcoming workforce.”
Brian Riley, Director of Sales for Best Option Restoration and a judge at the competition added: “Anything we can do to prepare the kids for what’s about to come is important, and we are here to encourage them to connect with the many opportunities available to them in Arizona.”
The Interview Competition will also take place at Highland High School in March 2026.
Additionally, students from Mesquite’s Career & Technical Education Agriscience and Cabinetmaking programs visited Concord Contracting’s corporate office and an active construction site. This tour offered insights into careers across construction-related fields including engineering, project management, administration, accounting, marketing, and safety.
Jen Rehse from Concord Contracting explained the importance of such experiences: “We need quality workers who want to be in the construction industry. Experiences like this give students a lightbulb moment about where they might fit. When students leave with confidence and purpose, it strengthens the future workforce.”
A senior student reflected on his participation by saying: “You notice the things you can’t capture on paper, and it makes the whole experience more real.”
Through these partnerships with local businesses like Concord Contracting and involvement in events such as those organized by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, Mesquite High School continues efforts to prepare its students for post-secondary education or direct entry into Arizona’s workforce.
Further information about career preparation programs offered by Gilbert Public Schools is available at https://www.gilbertschools.net/Thrive.
