New Coloring Book To Spark Kids’ Career Interest

The Highlands Economic Partnership has developed a coloring book designed to spark career interest in children across the Upper Cumberland.

The name of the book is called “Oh, the Places You Could Work!” The coloring book is a color by number and has local business logos. Highlands Economic Partnership Vice President Adam Poe said the idea came about when they wanted to target younger kids and generate curiosity in careers.

“We wanted to create a platform that was engaging, that spoke and communicated in the way that students want to hear something in a way that resonates with them,” Poe said. “And then also bring in local branding and local businesses to kind of connect the dots for students of that age.”

10,000 books will be printed and distributed throughout Upper Cumberland school systems. Poe said the ultimate goal is to put new ideas and things in front of them.

“I would say that it’s one of the most important things that we do,” Poe said. “Is creating an exposure to things that are going to create fulfillment, and love, and passion in our future workforce.”

Poe said that the earlier a person can get exposed to careers the better prepared they will be.

“They can have tailored learning opportunities that supplement the education that they are receiving in the school system to really allow them to be a skilled labor force once they graduate high school,” Poe said.