Global Trade Mission Educational Program
The Global Trade Mission Educational Program (GTM) is an innovative, hands-on learning experience preparing Southeast Michigan high school students to participate in the global economy by simulating the preparation of an international trade mission. Participating students work in cross-district, cross-county teams to create a product and global business plan which are presented to a panel of business experts for evaluation and feedback
Through a partnership with Automation Alley, Macomb Intermediate School District, Oakland Schools and Oakland Community College, Wayne Regional Educational Service Agency and Wayne State University, students work in teams to respond to realistic 'Trade Challenges' or industry specific projects. The Trade Challenges are created to highlight 'emerging sectors' and are developed in cooperation with area companies for rigorous and relevant application to theoretical classroom learning. Highlights of the event include international video conferences conducted with the assistance of the U.S. Department of Commerce, Commercial Services and career exploration through engagement with business, education and government volunteers.
GTM is patterned from the national model of the Virtual Trade Mission and is designed to immerse students in an authentic business experience that allows collaboration with a diverse team to respond quickly and professionally to a global business challenge.
GTM is patterned from the national model of the Virtual Trade Mission and is designed to immerse students in an authentic business experience that allows collaboration with a diverse team to respond quickly and professionally to a global business challenge.
Over the course of the program, students:
- Acquire critical workplace skills
- Develop cultural diversity awareness
- Obtain techniques in problem solving and project management
- Explore emerging careers in Southeast Michigan
- Assume corporate roles to guide their work strategy and business presentation
- Gain an understanding of their own role as a member of the future workforce
Overall, GTM offers students a complete and potentially life-changing experience. They have the opportunity to think, act and produce results just like business professionals and attain the skills necessary to respond to the realities of today's global economy. Since 1999, more than 2,000 students have participated in GTM.
GTM 2010
GTM included students from Genesee, Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair and Wayne counties.
- Click here for our 2010 sponsors
- A summary of the GTM 2010 Oakland
- A summary of the GTM 2010 Macomb
- A summary of the GTM 2010 Wayne - to come
Student resources
We continue to grow the program and have big plans for GTM 2011!
To learn more about Automation Alley's Global Trade Mission, please fill out the information request form or contact Automation Alley's Resource Center at (800) 427-5100 or gtm@automationalley.com.
