By Lauren Campbell
Every summer, Minnesota Carlson hosts the Business Innovation Academy, where middle school students are immersed in a week of business education. Partnering with PNC Bank, Carlson curates a week of foundational business learning culminating in a case competition where students show off what they have learned. Students also have the opportunity to explore campus and meet current college students, expanding their idea of what higher education can look like.
"We are so excited to get the middle schoolers on campus,” said Jeff Williams, Carlson’s coordinator for pathway initiatives and community partnerships. “Oftentimes this is their first exposure to the idea of business education as well as being their first time on a college campus. We really look to make it engaging and impactful for them."
PNC’s support means that the camp is entirely free to students, including all meals, gear, and transportation, removing barriers to participation.
“PNC’s mission is to build strong communities and create financial opportunities for individuals, families and businesses,” said Kelly McQueen, regional president for PNC Bank in Minnesota. “By investing in BIA, we are helping the participants develop foundational skills and build confidence – this should lead to college and career opportunities which will create financial opportunities for them and their families all while investing in the future of the Minnesota workforce.”
This year, PNC designed the case, challenging students to create a debit card for teens. In their final presentations, they analyzed the market, shared their SWOT analysis, and offered a unique solution to the problem. Through the week, they practice collaborating with their team, navigating ambiguity, and presenting in front of a panel of judges from Carlson and PNC.
“I learned about growth mindset, and how to be more confident in rooms where I’m uncomfortable,” said Theo, a student participant.
For most of the more than 130 students who attended camp, this was their first time experiencing a college campus. For the first time, they could understand what it might feel like to participate in higher education, and expand their imagination as they consider future career paths.
“Our hope is that the participants recognize their inherent talent and see themselves as first, college students/graduates and second, as having a path to a career in whatever field they choose,” McQueen said.
Many of the participants joined the camp with limited understanding of business careers, and leave with a deeper curiosity.
“At school, I never had a chance to learn about business,” said Eva, a camper. “I’m glad that I had this opportunity and I think other kids should take advantage of it.
