2015: Norfolk Hosts NU
College of Engineering Students
News Channel Nebraska, NORFOLK
NORFOLK – It was ‘Game Day’ for the city of Norfolk on Friday as the city was on display for a large group of Nebraska college students.
​
More than 500 first year engineering students from UNL and UNO were in town on Friday to tour the city and learn more about potential opportunities in Norfolk. Hosted by the Norfolk Area Economic Development Council, the students came to Norfolk as part of their annual Fall Industry Trip after stops in Grand Island, Columbus, and Omaha in previous years. Norfolk Chamber of Commerce President Mark Zimmerer says Friday’s gathering was an exciting chance to show off what Norfolk has to offer.
​
“When we’re talking engineering and a specialty like that, it’s even more important that we get these people to come to our community and see what we have to offer with that quality of life. We’re glad to have them, we’re excited and they’re excited to see our businesses. It’s a great day for Norfolk, NE.”
​
Tours were given by various local businesses, including Nucor Steel, Nebraska Public Power District, and JEO among others. With a push to increase technology driven careers, such as in manufacturing, Zimmerer notes the importance of being one step ahead of other communities when looking to attract top young talent to the area for their employment.
​
“If you’re not staying ahead of the game, you’re falling behind it. I think what we’re doing here today is we’re keeping the pace up with everybody else, trying to get ahead of the game. To attract these people back to our communities, you have to be ahead of it. We’re excited about what we’re doing.”
​
While the students got a chance to see local businesses, they gathered at Memorial Park to see other areas where Norfolk excels according to Zimmerer.
​