By Shaynah Jerman
On September 25, 2025, we hosted our annual HR Connect conference where we welcomed over 300 HR professionals from all over the NorthEast with a day jam-packed with networking, workshops, a total-rewards panel, and inspirational keynote speakers. We also welcomed students from Roger L. Putnam Vocational-Technical High School’s Business Technology shop.
Putnam 12th grade students attending the HR Connect, (from left to right) Julian, Mariah, Juneliz, La’Jaysha, and Amari)
Located in Springfield, MA, Putnam Vocational hosts 23 different vocations for grades 9-12. The school’s mission focuses on equipping their students with tactile skills that will prepare them for post-secondary success. The Business Tech shop teaches hard skills, such as Microsoft Suite programs, but also encourages students to enhance their interpersonal skills through different offsite opportunities. We were fortunate to work with grades 11-12 teacher, Ms. Sarah Russell, on equipping her senior students with the skills and knowledge they would use to put their best foot forward at the HR Connect. Ms. Russell’s junior students also got to participate by practicing their computer skills by assisting in the creation of the tangible handouts used at the conference by attendees.
At the conference, Ms. Russell’s seniors were assigned various tasks throughout the day, from registration, assisting our workshop speakers, and manning their own vendor table to talk about their experiences at Putnam. They also were tasked with networking among our many vendors and attendees to build their networking skills. Two of the students, Giana Luna and Julian Anderson, shared with us their thoughts around the experience, and how impactful the opportunity was to them.
“I had a significant experience at the HR conference at MGM. As a student at a vocational school, majoring in business trade, it was great to be a part of an event that celebrates the human resources department. I enjoyed being able to pass out swag bags and badges as well as representing my school as a Business Technology student. I was also able to connect with many of the companies that were present and learn more about what they do for human resources and why it’s important in every business.”
Giana Luna, 11th Grade Business Technology
“I had a significant experience at the HR conference at MGM. As a student at a vocational school, majoring in business trade, it was great to be a part of an event that celebrates the human resources department. I enjoyed being able to pass out swag bags and badges as well as representing my school as a Business Technology student. I was also able to connect with many of the companies that were present and learn more about what they do for human resources and why it’s important in every business.”
Julian Anderson, 12th Grade Business Technology Student
EANE is excited to share that we are engaging in a solidified relationship with Ms. Russell and her colleague, Mrs. Amy Scott, beyond the conference setting. Our mission at EANE is to assist in upskilling the workforce and equipping the future, as well as growing our presence in the community. We are beyond thrilled to be working with the students in the Business Technology shop and continuing to give them opportunities to develop their skills.
Starting in 2026, members of EANE’s staff will be visiting the Business Technology students in a mentorship capacity to give the students opportunity for open discussion for honest questions and fears surrounding a post-education pathway. We will also continue to have the Putnam students support our planning efforts for our 2026 Leadership Summit in April.
To learn more about Roger L. Putnam Vocational-Technical High School you can visit their website here.