Tenaris Tuesdays at ANC: Promoting Awareness of Careers in Industry
Tenaris has joined forces with Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) in Blytheville, Arkansas, to introduce an innovative pilot educational program tailored for high school students who are dually enrolled at the community college. This collaboration, known as “Tenaris Tuesdays at ANC,” is a unique initiative that emphasizes the significance of education and training as critical tools for personal and professional development. Moreover, it aims to illuminate the abundant opportunities available within the industrial sector, fostering a pipeline of skilled and informed talent for the future workforce.
“This partnership bridges the gap between education and industry by bringing Tenaris professionals directly into our classrooms to share their expertise and provide hands-on learning experiences,” explains Michael Graham, ANC Dean for Secondary Programs. “Students gain insight into real-world applications of their studies, a deeper understanding of Tenaris’s innovative products, and the professional standards expected in today’s workforce. This collaboration not only enhances their education but also prepares them for successful careers. We are grateful for Tenaris’s commitment to investing in the future of our students.”
Tenaris Tuesdays at ANC officially launched in the fall semester of 2024, engaging over 300 high school students in a curriculum that goes beyond technical knowledge. While students continue to build their technical competencies through ANC’s coursework, Tenaris’s initiative focuses on complementary skills essential for thriving in professional settings, such as teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management.
The monthly sessions are conducted by Tenaris professionals from various disciplines, ensuring students receive a comprehensive perspective on industrial careers. These sessions include interactive activities like team challenges where students create structures using limited supplies under specific parameters, simulating real-world problem-solving scenarios. In addition, Q&A panels with Tenaris experts provide a platform for students to engage in meaningful discussions about career paths, industry trends, and the skills necessary for success in an ever-evolving industrial landscape.
The program’s success lies in its ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, providing students with a holistic learning experience. “Providing students with hands-on opportunities like these is a fantastic way to connect technical training with real-world applications. Encouraging critical thinking, adaptability, and teamwork not only prepares them for dynamic industrial environments but also instills lifelong skills they can carry forward into any career,” says Hernán Brondino, Tenaris Operations Vice President. “It is also an excellent opportunity for students to engage with our experts, learn more about our company, and gain insight into working in a dynamic industrial environment.”
The Broader Vision Behind Tenaris Tuesdays
The Tenaris Tuesdays program is part of a broader strategy by Tenaris to foster educational and workforce development initiatives in communities where it operates. By partnering with ANC, the company is addressing a critical need: bridging the gap between educational institutions and industry to create a seamless transition for students from academia to the professional world. This approach ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the practical skills and confidence required to excel in their chosen careers.
For ANC, this partnership aligns perfectly with its mission to provide high-quality education and training opportunities that meet the needs of students and the community. The college has long been a hub for technical and vocational training, and the collaboration with Tenaris elevates its offerings by introducing an industry-led perspective to its programs. Through Tenaris Tuesdays, ANC students are exposed to cutting-edge practices, innovative technologies, and the cultural values that define success in industrial settings.
Student Impact: Stories of Growth and Engagement
The program’s impact is best illustrated through the stories of students who have participated in Tenaris Tuesdays. For many, these sessions have been transformative, offering a glimpse into the possibilities that await them in the industrial sector. Students have reported increased confidence in their abilities to solve complex problems, improved communication skills, and a clearer understanding of the career opportunities available in fields like manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain management.
One student, Sarah Johnson, a high school senior enrolled in ANC’s technical program, shared her experience: “The hands-on activities we do during Tenaris Tuesdays are so different from what we usually learn in class. It’s exciting to see how what we’re studying can actually be used to create something real. I’ve always been interested in engineering, but these sessions have given me a better idea of what it’s really like to work in this field. Hearing from Tenaris professionals about their jobs and experiences has been really inspiring.”
Another student, Carlos Ramirez, expressed similar sentiments: “Before joining this program, I didn’t know much about industrial careers. I thought it was all about machines and factories, but now I see there’s so much more to it. Teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving are just as important. I’m excited about the possibilities and feel more confident about my future.”
Industry Professionals: Building Connections and Inspiring the Next Generation
Tenaris professionals involved in the program have also found the experience to be rewarding. For them, Tenaris Tuesdays represent an opportunity to give back to the community and inspire the next generation of industry leaders. By sharing their knowledge and experiences, these professionals are helping to demystify the industrial sector and showcase the diverse and dynamic career paths it offers.
“Engaging with students through this program has been incredibly fulfilling,” says Laura Martinez, a Tenaris engineer who has led several sessions. “It’s amazing to see their enthusiasm and curiosity. They ask great questions, and you can tell they’re really thinking about how they can apply what they’re learning. It’s exciting to know that we’re helping to shape their future and possibly even inspiring some of them to join the industry.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Program’s Reach
With the resumption of the program in spring 2025, Tenaris and ANC are exploring opportunities to expand and enhance Tenaris Tuesdays. Feedback from students, educators, and Tenaris professionals will play a crucial role in shaping the program’s future iterations. Potential enhancements include introducing more advanced technical challenges, incorporating virtual reality simulations for a deeper understanding of industrial processes, and offering mentorship opportunities where students can receive one-on-one guidance from Tenaris experts.
Additionally, Tenaris is considering extending the program’s reach to include middle school students, recognizing the importance of introducing younger students to industrial careers early in their educational journey. By sparking interest at an earlier age, the program aims to create a sustained pipeline of talent for the industry.
Community Benefits: Strengthening Local Workforce Development
The collaboration between Tenaris and ANC has far-reaching implications for the local community. By investing in education and workforce development, the program is helping to strengthen the region’s economic resilience. As students graduate from ANC with both technical skills and practical experience, they are well-positioned to contribute to the local workforce and support the growth of industries in the area.
For Blytheville and surrounding communities, initiatives like Tenaris Tuesdays are more than just educational programs—they are investments in the future. By equipping students with the skills they need to succeed, these programs are laying the foundation for a thriving and sustainable local economy.
Tenaris Tuesdays at ANC exemplifies the power of collaboration between industry and education. By bringing together the expertise of Tenaris professionals and the educational resources of ANC, the program is creating meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for success in the industrial sector and beyond. As it continues to evolve, Tenaris Tuesdays holds the promise of transforming lives, strengthening communities, and shaping the future of the workforce.
