The Central Illinois CEO program is a great opportunity for local high school students to learn the skills of the business community and if owning their own business is for them.

And while it certainly offers that opportunity, Facilitator of the Central Illinois CEO program, Melanie Brown is highlighting the personal growth she sees in the students in the third year of the program.

Brown feels this process prepares students for the workforce and understanding the personalities and strengths of their future coworkers.

Coming up, students of the program will receive some professional development on how to have a business lunch and Brown indicates, those types of lessons are a lot of the focus in the first semester. She feels this is where you see a lot of confidence in the students begin to develop.

Brown points out, recruiting efforts are already underway for next year's program. If you or a student you know might be interested in being a part of the program, visit centralillinoisceo.com.