The CTE Incubator program is a collaborative learning experience for high school students to create and fully develop their own product or service working with local entrepreneurs and business experts that serve as volunteer coaches and mentors. Think of it like SHARK TANK. I have been involved with the CTE Business Incubator program as Judge and Mentor for the past 2 years. It is the purest form of teaching because you deal with kids in a one-on-one and small group environment where you can actually “listen to them think.” My role as a mentor is to help them with leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills. They have great and not-so-great ideas, and they have learned to tell the difference. I am so impressed by my team of students. They have created a service, learned how to pitch it to investors, and have started a business before they even graduate. They have successfully competed in the DECA and SkillsUSA competitions and are now on their way to the state competition. The reward for my efforts can be summed up with a recent note they sent me: “Having you as our mentor has been educational and inspiring. Everything you have taught us I will carry on throughout our careers. Thank you for not only being a vital part of our project but also teaching us how to be businessmen and showing us the skills it takes to be successful. We are truly thankful for everything you have done for us.”