By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–An inquisitive group of Union City High School seniors got an up-close look at a couple of local career options recently.
Tyson Foods and Greenfield Products hosted UCHS students on Manufacturing Day. The two businesses provided tours, made management personnel available to answer student questions and even provided samples from the nation’s second-largest processor and marketer of chicken.
Lana Wood of the Northwest and Southwest TN Workforce Board organized the tours and Manufacturing Day festivities.
Students began the day at Tyson, touring the facility and observing each step necessary to produce chicken products, such as the ones served at McDonald’s restaurants. They learned about the various jobs available through Tyson, including accountants, safety staff, medical staff, managers, and human resource personnel.
They also enjoyed time in the test kitchen, sampling fresh chicken.
Additionally, students heard detailed job descriptions of origami specialists who design and determine the most efficient packaging for Tyson products.
After touring the plant, students had the opportunity to hear from plant managers and ask specific questions about operations.
HR Manager Erick Felkner offered guidance to the group, saying: “Put forth the effort and do the things that others won’t do.”
It was then on to Greenfield Products, where students were treated to pizza as they listened to details about the company and its subsidiaries.
The UCHS seniors then toured the facility and witnessed the process of creating large cranes that lift shipping containers.
Operations Manager Chris Foulks and General Manager Chris Busenbark addressed the group at the end of the tour, telling them: “We can teach you anything you want to know as long as you come to work on time.”