Real-life problem solving, detailed research, one-on-one coaching and a look inside a future at Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) – this all made possible thanks to Junior Achievement’s 3DE program. 

By giving education real-world context, the 3DE program empowers, inspires and better prepares local students for life after graduation. With just six weeks to work on an assigned case, students rely on situational and cultural context, along with their own experiences, to determine a solution.

To prompt critical and analytical thinking, I&M staff provided a coaching session for the 160-plus Snider High School sophomore students in late September. From there, students worked in their groups to research and determine the best real-world outcome.

"This program offers these students a seat at the table to not just learn from professionals around them, but to contribute to the conversation with their unique perspectives to real-life situations," said Jarrod Wilson, Distribution Dispatching Manager. "We value the opportunity to mentor program participants, but also learn from these individuals as they are on a path to become our future generation of leaders."

Each group then had the opportunity to present their findings to a panel of judges on Oct. 10, where they also toured Northeast Service Center, experienced a safety trailer demonstration and explored various vehicles within the fleet. 

Since the 2022-23 school year, the 3DE program has served as a partnership between Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana and Fort Wayne Community Schools. The program, which targets learning beyond the walls of a classroom, incorporates a learning model focused on the Four Cs: cohorts, cases, collaboration and competencies.

Vea nuestra community page for more information on how I&M is supporting our local communities from Rockport, Ind. to Bridgman, Mich. and how staff are making a difference through volunteering.