Celebrating Skilled Trades and Student Talent
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee, a workforce development initiative of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce, will host its Draft Day on May 8, 2026, at the Carolyn Smith Innovation Center in Sumner County.
Presented by Meta and held in partnership with Sumner County Schools, Draft Day is a first-of-its-kind event designed to celebrate students pursuing careers in the skilled trades while connecting them directly with employers across Tennessee.
The event will feature more than 30 local employers and 200 Sumner County students, bringing together the next generation of talent with industry leaders in a dynamic, hands-on environment.
Inspired by the excitement of a draft-style event, students will be able to commit to high-demand industries such as advanced manufacturing, construction, transportation, and technology. During the event, participating employers will have the opportunity to “draft” students into apprenticeships, internships, and full-time positions, underscoring the value and opportunity within skilled career pathways.
“Draft Day is about recognizing the next generation of Tennessee’s workforce and creating meaningful connections between students and employers,” said Josh Brown, President and CEO for Tennessee Chamber of Commerce. “We are proud to highlight the importance of skilled trades and provide a platform where students can take the next step toward successful careers.”
The event will bring together students, educators, and industry leaders in a dynamic environment that showcases real-world career opportunities and strengthens the connection between education and workforce needs.
“Meta is proud to have helped launch Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee and to serve as presenting sponsor of Draft Day. We believe in the power of this program to open doors for students and strengthen communities,” said Tara Tenorio, community resource development manager at Meta. “It’s exciting to see our chamber and education partners from across Sumner County come together to support such an impactful initiative — connecting students with real career pathways in the skilled trades and helping build a stronger workforce for Tennessee’s future. We look forward to continuing this work alongside the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and local leaders to expand opportunity for the next generation”
“Sumner County Schools is proud to partner with Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee to host Draft Day and shine a spotlight on the incredible opportunities available in the skilled trades,” Sumner County Schools Superintendent Dr. Scott Langford said. “This event represents exactly what we mean by preparing students for life after graduation. We are connecting them with real employers, real opportunities, and real pathways to success. We are committed to ensuring our students leave Sumner County Schools with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive in today’s workforce.”
Draft Day is part of Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee’s ongoing mission to promote workforce development, elevate awareness of high-paying, high-demand careers, and build a stronger talent pipeline across the state.
Event Details
- Date: May 8, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Location: Sumner County Schools’ Carolyn Smith Innovation Center
- 735 E Main St
- Hendersonville, TN
Event Partners
- Presenting Sponsor: Meta
- Sumner County School District
- Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Nashville
- Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Portland
- Volunteer State Community College
- Forward Sumner
- Gallatin Area Chamber of Commerce
- Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce
- Portland Chamber of Commerce
- Tennessee Chamber of Commerce
- Tennessee Valley Authority
- White House Area Chamber of Commerce
For more information about Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee, visit here.