Building the Future of Our Local Workforce
The Work Natchitoches Summit is an immersive career exploration experience designed to engage 11th grade students across Natchitoches Parish. The event connects students directly with local employers in an interactive setting that highlights real-world career opportunities available right here in our community. Through meaningful conversations and hands-on exposure, students will gain insight into local industries, workplace expectations, and the diverse paths available to them after graduation, helping build a stronger and more informed future workforce.
Date: April 15, 2026
Time: 8:30 am to 1:30 pm
Location: NSU Student Union
FOR 2026!
*Eligible 11th grade students who are homeschooled, or attend a non-participating school, may reach out to request inclusion through the button below. Students attending individually must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Event Highlights
Direct Engagement with Local Employers
Students connect directly with local businesses to ask questions, hear real career stories, and learn what employers value in future talent.
Career Pathways Sessions
Focused sessions highlight entrepreneurship, tourism, education, manufacturing, and healthcare, with speakers sharing real-world insights and opportunities.
Clear Takeaways for Future Planning
Students leave with a clearer understanding of local career options and how employer connections can lead to internships and work-based learning opportunities.
Employer Information
Employer participation is the driving force behind the Work Natchitoches Summit and plays a critical role in shaping the future of our local workforce. This event is designed to facilitate meaningful employer and student connections in a structured setting, giving you the opportunity to introduce your organization, share what you look for in future employees, and begin building relationships with the next generation of talent. By participating, you help strengthen the local talent pipeline by increasing student awareness of the career opportunities available right here in Natchitoches Parish.
Booth fees are $150 per booth and include two lunches, one 8-foot rectangular banquet table, and two chairs. If more than two representatives plan to attend, additional lunches may be purchased for $18 per person.
Table cloths are available as needed; however, we encourage businesses to bring a branded table cloth when possible for improved visibility.
To help students engage with your industry, employers are expected to provide a hands-on activity or demonstration at their booth.
Work Based Learning (WBL) Opportunities
Employers who participate in work-based learning (WBL) programs help strengthen the local talent pipeline while supporting workforce readiness efforts across Natchitoches Parish. Businesses participating in WBL by the time of the Work Natchitoches Summit will be highlighted to students, creating early connections with potential future interns.
