Career and Technical Education
Business and Management
Our business and management courses prepare students for careers in planning, organizing, directing and evaluating business functions essential to efficient and productive business operations. These courses include Introduction to Business, Sales and Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Personal Finance.
Courses
Introduction To Business
This course provides students with insight into the basic foundations of both successful and unsuccessful businesses, allowing students to understand the various forms that an organization can take. Students examine the importance of the environmental, social, global, economic, and technological influences on business, culture, and the economy. Students will participate in business simulations, outline activities, and group projects to enhance problem-solving, decision-making, and team-building skills.
Sales and Marketing
This course provides a foundation for understanding and applying the functions of sales and marketing within local and global economies, with a particular focus on the language of marketing, historical and current patterns and trends, economic considerations, and technological changes, opportunities, and considerations. Information is presented and explored through a variety of mediums, including chapter work, daily tasks, and small and large scale projects throughout the semester that utilize the skills of multiple styles of learning, addresses cultural components, and provides for real world application of content in a context that students can relate to.
Entrepreneurship
This course provides a foundation for students to become knowledgeable about the fundamentals of business ownership, as well as the impact of entrepreneurs on society from multiple perspectives: business owners, politicians, scientists, artists, consumers, etc. Students are encouraged to make economic and social connections and use the information to explore the creation of new businesses or additions to existing businesses. Utilizing the information gathered students explore phases of businesses from product creation through finance to experience the process of writing a business plan.
Personal Finance
Personal Finance will emphasize the importance of educated financial decisions. This course is intended for all students and will introduce the skills that are necessary for financial success. Topics will include saving and budgeting, banking, payment types, credit scores, financing higher education, renting vs. owning, insurance and taxes, consumer protection, and investing. Upon completion of this course, students will receive a certificate of completion. Meets every other day.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities in business and management span across various categories and skill levels, providing a wide range of options for individuals seeking employment in this industry. Here are descriptions of career opportunities in each of the specified categories.
Business and Management
Business Development Manager: As a Business Development Manager, your primary focus is on identifying new business opportunities, building and maintaining client relationships, and driving sales growth.
Sales Executive: Sales Executives are responsible for selling products or services to customers. They work closely with clients to understand their needs, provide solutions, negotiate contracts, and achieve sales targets.
Marketing Manager: Marketing Managers oversee marketing campaigns and strategies to promote products or services. They conduct market research, develop marketing plans, manage budgets, and collaborate with various teams to drive brand awareness and generate leads.
Operations Coordinator: Operations Coordinators play a vital role in ensuring smooth operations within the Sales and Marketing department. They assist in managing schedules, coordinating meetings, handling administrative tasks, and providing support to the team.
Project Manager: Project Managers oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of marketing projects. They manage timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful project completion while collaborating with cross-functional teams.
Human Resources Specialist: Human Resources Specialists in Sales and Marketing focus on talent acquisition, onboarding, training, and performance management. They ensure that the team has the right skills and capabilities to meet business objectives.
Financial Analyst: Financial Analysts in Sales and Marketing analyze sales data, market trends, and financial performance to provide insights and recommendations. They assist in budgeting, forecasting, and optimizing financial resources.
Business Consultant: Business Consultants provide expert advice and guidance to organizations in Sales and Marketing. They help identify areas of improvement, develop strategies, and implement best practices to enhance business performance.
Entrepreneur-in-Residence: An Entrepreneur-in-Residence is an experienced professional who provides mentorship and strategic guidance to startups or businesses within the Sales and Marketing industry. They share their expertise to drive innovation and growth.
E-commerce Specialist: E-commerce Specialists focus on managing online sales channels and optimizing the customer experience. They develop and implement e-commerce strategies, manage online campaigns, and analyze performance metrics.
Business Analyst: Business Analysts analyze sales and marketing data, identify trends, and provide insights to support decision-making. They play a crucial role in driving data-driven strategies and improving business performance.
Sales Manager: Sales Managers lead a team of sales professionals, set sales targets, develop sales strategies, and provide coaching and support to achieve revenue goals. They monitor performance, analyze sales data, and implement corrective measures.
Salesperson: Salespeople are responsible for building relationships with customers, understanding their needs, and persuading them to purchase products or services. They utilize effective sales techniques, negotiate contracts, and meet sales targets.
Faculty
Johnna Kendall
Business Instructor
Mrs. Kendall has taught since 2002 both at Blue Mountain School and St. Johnsbury Academy. She has taught world history, US history, and also served as assistant dean of students, homestay coordinator, and assistant for campus life. She currently teaches marketing and entrepreneurship courses. Mrs. Kendall earned a BA in Humanities and History from Providence College.
Abigail Murphy
Business Instructor
Mrs. Murphy has worked as a business instructor at St. Johnsbury Academy since 2001. She teaches Sales and Marketing as well as Entrepreneurship and serves at the FBLA advisor. Mrs. Murphy earned a BA in English Literature from McGill University and an MA in Secondary Education from Johnson State College.