“At this conference today are the change-makers,” said Dan Dipert, during the inaugural Corporate Citizenship Forum. Dan Dipert of Dan Dipert Coaches and Ami Motsenbocker from Lockheed Martin and shared their insight during the Workforce Development Panel. The panel was moderated by Dean Harry Dombroski of the UTA College of business.
Dan Dipert stressed the importance of receiving an exceptional early education. Growing up, Dipert struggled because of the quality of education that he received. Dipert reflected on his childhood working at his family business, even during his lunch breaks at school. He understood the value of hard work and started his travel agency.
Dan Dipert always believed in contributing to his community. Even when his business was new, he made a difference by donating what he could. Today, the Dipert Family Fund benefits a variety of charitable causes, including the Arlington ISD Education Foundation and the University of Texas at Arlington. In addition to his charity, Dan Dipert has served as a member of the Arlington ISD’s board and as a Director for the Arlington Girl’s Club, Big Brothers and Sisters.
To honor Dan Dipert’s for his work as a community leader, Arlington ISD named its new Dan Dipert Career & Technical Center after him. Today, about 50% of all Arlington ISD high school students have a class at the Technical Center. The Center allows students to gain relevant industry experience and earn certifications.
Ami Motsenbocker from Lockheed Martin Education marveled at the difference the Dan Dipert Career & Technical Center is making in the lives of students. She stressed that the world has equal talent but not equal opportunity.
Businesses can impact a child’s life forever by getting involved with workforce development. Lockheed Martin invests in talent and shapes its future workforce by supporting STEM organizations, hiring high school practicum students and college interns.
Ami Motsenbocker believes that the earlier businesses can engage children, the better. She said that all elementary children are excited about STEM, but by the time they reach 8th grade, only 50% of students are. By high school, only 31% of students are interested in pursuing a STEM career. Kids need positive role models and pathways to opportunities.