CABI Program

Auburn, May 3---CABI or "Career Awareness for Business and Industry," is an Extension educational program that teaches junior high and senior high school students how to realistically plan and prepare for future careers.

"Career Awareness is important to Alabama's future," says Dr. Carol Centrallo, an apparel and textile management specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

"In this fast-paced, information-driven society, young people cannot afford to wait until they graduate from high school to start thinking about their futures. Students should have a good command of career information long before graduation. The CABI projects help students by teaching them what information they need, where to find it and how to use it to reach career goals. The learning takes place while students engage in fun activities. "

Companies, schools, parents and community leaders collaborate and tailor the CABI program to meet local needs. Youth learn through structured activities that emphasize school- and work-based leaning. Activities include guest speakers, site tours, focused lessons, job shadowing, problem-solving, career guidance and more.

Sponsored by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, CABI, helps youth identify their personal interests, talents and goals. It also helps youth learn career options in a variety of businesses and industries; learn education skills and personal characteristics required for a variety of careers; develop competencies in collecting and using information, critical thinking and problem-solving, and creates a career preparation plan.

The CABI curriculum incorporates three active learning elements --an introduction to the world of work, guided exploration and career preparation.

In the introduction to the world of work, students study the structure, size, scope and career opportunities in a host business and its broader industry.

Then, in the guided exploration portion of the program, youth examine the workplace through problem-solving exercises, shadowing and various hands-on activities.

In the final stage, students learn and practice the steps to career selection, and develop a career preparation plan.

For more information about the CABI program, contact your county Extension office.

SOURCE: Dr. Carol Centrallo, Extension Apparel & Textile Management Specialist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, (334) 844-1325