Bridging the gap between the classroom and the workforce

Apr 16, 2026

By Kasandra Jenkins, Senior Communications Manager

As many Atlanta high school seniors prepare for graduation, questions about what comes next can feel overwhelming. College isn’t the only path — and for many students, hands-on careers and skilled trades offer stable, rewarding opportunities.

On April 15, Norfolk Southern partnered with Communities in Schools of Atlanta, Inc. to host students from Perry Career Academy at its McDonough Training Center for a career exploration workshop focused on workforce readiness and postgraduation planning.

The event was timed intentionally for students approaching graduation, offering real-world exposure to career pathways that don’t require a traditional four-year degree and helping them better understand their immediate options after high school.

Why it matters

Workforce development is a key focus area for Norfolk Southern and a growing priority across Metro Atlanta. As students weigh the next steps after graduation, direct exposure to training environments and career options can help bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce.

By bringing students into an active training facility, the workshop connected education with opportunity — showing how hands-on learning, technical skills and on-the-job training can lead to meaningful careers.

What students experienced

During the workshop, students participated in hands-on rail-related activities, including operating a locomotive simulator. They also toured the McDonough Training Center, where Norfolk Southern employees receive technical training, and engaged directly with team members to learn about different career paths within the company.

To help students prepare for future opportunities in skilled trades, Norfolk Southern also donated safety boots to participating students, ensuring they had proper protective footwear for hands-on environments.

The bigger picture

The workshop is part of Norfolk Southern’s broader commitment to strengthening local communities through workforce development and education. The participating nonprofit organization received a $15,000 Thriving Communities Grant this year to help strengthen their college and workforce readiness program funding, supporting continued engagement with students and schools across the region.

By connecting students with practical career pathways and training environments, the event supported a smoother transition from school to employment — and helped plant the foundation for a stronger, more prepared workforce.

Kasandra Jenkins assists with external communications for Norfolk Southern, focusing on community impact, awards, and media relations. Kasandra joined NS in 2025, with more than 10 years of media relations, and corporate/crisis communications experience.