Washtenaw Community College is hosting a three-day program for area high school students who are destined to work in the dynamic and ever-changing global business environment.

The second annual Washtenaw County Global Trade Mission (GTM) Program for high school students will be held Thursday, May 8, Friday, May 9 and Saturday, May 10, according to a press release from Washtenaw Community College. It is designed to introduce tomorrow's product and service providers to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship on a global scale.

The program is free.

"Washtenaw Community College is proud to provide this real-world experience, and the insights it brings, to the students in our community who will be shaping the global economy in a few short years," said

WCC President Dr. Rose Bellanca.

"This event will help us further our commitment to help today's students and tomorrow's workforce become job ready, wherever their opportunities may take them."

"This is the future workforce," said Faris Alami, chief executive officer of an international executive management consultant company and GTM director.

"Global Trade Mission provides students with the opportunity to learn about issues in global trade, cultural diversity, entrepreneurship, and business, along with the latest technology. At GTM, we are developing the next generation of leaders and talent."

According to Alami, students will learn from regional experts and other professionals via international video conferencing. They will work in cross-functional teams to simulate an international trade mission in response to global challenges that include alternative energy, homeland security, medical devices, information technology, and robotics.

Each team will create a comprehensive business plan. Each student will assume one of four executive roles, which focus on the development, marketing, and selling of a product.

Students will use a variety of resources for their research, including both personal and virtual formats. On the final day, they will present their plans to professionals involved in global trade.

"WCC is excited to be hosting its second Global Trade Mission event in Washtenaw County for area high school students," said Linda Blakey, vice president of student and academic services.

"To be successful in the global job market, tomorrow's workforce must be familiar with different cultural practices and perspectives. This program will be a great introduction for the students."

There is still room, as of Saturday, April 26, to participate in the GTM. Teachers are encouraged to call Alami at 888-853-0122 ext. 2 or visit www.globaltrademission.org to register online.

Washtenaw Community College says it has made education accessible and affordable for the local community for 48 years. Located in Ann Arbor, the college offers over 120 degrees and certificates, an open door admission policy and affordable tuition rates. WCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the regional accrediting organization recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.