Since 1998, Oakland School’s Global Trade Mission (GTM) has provided more than 2,000 high-school students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s dynamic world economy. GTM is an intensive, three-day, hands-on virtual learning experience that simulates an international trade mission. Through this extraordinary opportunity, awareness is being created among students about exciting careers in international business, global trade, cultural diversity, entrepreneurship and technology tools in the following high-tech industries, emerging technologies and disciplines with the most promising future growth potential overseas.
How does the mission work?
Cross-district student teams from area high schools are formed to create their unique business export plan, and then present it to an expert panel. Business coaches work with students to assist with research and design, using international videoconferences, internet research, and email “lifelines.”
With collaboration from business, education, and government, working in cross-functional and cross-district teams of four (with dedicated business experts and coaches to guide them along the way), students are presented with a real-world case study on how to best market and sell a U.S. company’s product, service, or technology overseas based on the opportunities, challenges and unique characteristics of doing business in a particular country. This year’s GTM will focus on the following 5 regions with high projected demand for the technologies noted above: Africa, Asia, Australia/North America, Europe, and Latin America. Click here to watch a few minutes overview video about the event.
Numerous decision-making factors come into play which compels students to think critically and learn how to quickly adapt to rapidly changing circumstances in the international marketplace. They include: local market demand; consumer tastes and cultural preferences; modes of entry and trade barriers; cost and quality; protection of intellectual property; trade finance; supply chain management; and legal considerations. Students will develop international business plans and strategies on how to overcome these common hurdles which companies typically face on a daily basis. At the conclusion of the three-day event, each student team will present their findings to a panel of business executives who will judge them on content, quality, originality and feasibility of their business proposals.
The overall mission of GTM is to create a pipeline of qualified young professionals whom are adept at problem solving which local companies can draw on in the future to enhance Michigan’s overall global competitiveness. It also aims to stimulate a spirit of entrepreneur as Michigan’s economy shifts to higher-value added technologies while ensuring that our economy remains at the forefront of innovation.