Career Coaches are Essential to Southaven's Workforce Future
By Debbie King, Southaven Chamber President & CEO
Every conversation I have with local employers eventually comes back to the same issue: finding and keeping a skilled workforce.
That is why I strongly support the placement of career coaches in DeSoto County high schools.
Mississippi is facing a growing shortage of skilled workers in high-demand fields such as welding, electrical work, plumbing, healthcare, transportation, and advanced manufacturing. Many workers in these industries are nearing retirement, and without intentional workforce planning, businesses will feel the impact for years to come.
Career coaches are helping close that gap. By working directly with students as early as ninth grade, they help young people identify their strengths, explore career options, and develop realistic plans for life after graduation, whether that path includes college, technical training, entering the workforce, or a combination of all three.
Just as important, career coaches connect students with local employers through internships, job shadowing, and work-based learning opportunities. These experiences give students exposure to real workplaces while helping businesses build early relationships with future talent. Coaches also focus on essential soft skills, communication, professionalism, and accountability, that employers repeatedly say are critical to success.
Career coaching is also reshaping how we define success. While higher education remains a valuable option for many students, it is not the only path to a fulfilling, well-paying career. Skilled trades and technical careers are in high demand and offer strong opportunities without the burden of excessive student debt. Career coaches help students and families understand those options before graduation, when informed decisions matter most.
Workforce development does not begin after a student receives a diploma—it begins with early guidance, exposure, and planning. I believe career coaches are one of the most effective tools we have to align education with workforce needs and prepare students for real-world success.
When we invest in career coaching, we are investing in our future workforce, our local businesses, and the long-term economic strength of Southaven.
— Debbie King, President & CEO
Southaven Chamber of Commerce