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High School Students Showcase Entrepreneurial Skills at CEO Trade Show

BALATON — High school students from Lyon and Murray County showcased their entrepreneurial skills at the second annual CEO Trade Show in Balaton. The CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) program provided students with the opportunity to learn about starting a small business and building essential business skills.

Tracy Area High School junior KaNa Thao expressed how much of a difference the program made in her understanding of business operations. She and her business partner, Chris Del Angel, were among the nine students who participated in this year’s CEO class.

The program, led by facilitator Shanda Walker, focuses on teaching high school juniors and seniors entrepreneurial skills, connecting them with local businesses, and providing opportunities to start their own businesses. Throughout the year, students visit numerous businesses, hear from guest speakers, and work with mentors from the local business community.

The students’ business concepts ranged from home baking to music and carpentry. MHS junior Olivia Williams, inspired by her passion for baking and making sourdough bread at home, started Liv’s Sourdough Bakery. Another student, Owen Gillette from MCC, launched a business creating unique tables from live edge wood and epoxy.

Del Angel and Thao collaborated on a sneaker resale business, capitalizing on the popularity of rare and sought-after sneaker styles. Del Angel highlighted the value of the program in providing hands-on experience and building confidence.

The success of this year’s CEO program has paved the way for a new class of 20 young professionals from Marshall, Tracy, RTR, and MCC school districts to participate in the 2024-25 Lyon and Murray County CEO class. The program continues to empower students to explore their entrepreneurial potential and make valuable connections in the business community.