MONROE — Every day, you meet them: People who truly love what they do. Whether it’s a nurse who lights up while describing a patient’s recovery, a welder who takes pride in every perfect bead, or a small business owner who can’t imagine doing anything else — these are the people whose enthusiasm is contagious.

At Monroe High School, staff want students to see that kind of passion firsthand.

The school is launching a new initiative to connect students with local people who love their work. Community members who are enthusiastic about their careers are invited to schedule a visit to the high school during the afternoon “flex time” (1:51—2:21 p.m.) and share their career journeys with a group of students.

“We want students to hear real stories from real people,” said MHS principal Jeriamy Jackson. “Not just about what the job is, but why someone loves doing it, how they got there, and what they wish they had known when they were in high school.”

Presenters will be asked to speak about:

●  What they do for work

●  How they got into their field

●  What they enjoy most about their job

●  Any advice they’d give their high school selves

The goal is to expose students to a wide range of industries — from the trades and healthcare, to entrepreneurship, public service, engineering, the arts, and more. By hearing directly from people in different careers, students can begin to connect their own interests with potential future careers.

“If you’re someone who loves your job, chances are your story could inspire a student to discover their own path,” Jackson said. “Sometimes all it takes is one conversation to open a door.”

The school hopes to create a schedule of guest speakers throughout the school year and is actively seeking volunteers from across Green County and beyond.

Those interested in participating can contact Cara Carper at caracarper@monroe.k12.wi.us or by phone at 608-328-7573.

Whether you’re a machinist, teacher, artist, software developer, entrepreneur, or anything in between — if you love your job, Monroe High School wants to hear from you.