The Plug Speaker Series Wraps With Powerhouse Insight From Niagara Water’s Surlerner Waits
Windsor Public Schools closed out the 2024–2025 installment of The Plug Speaker Series on a high note with guest speaker Surlerner Waits, Human Resources Manager at Niagara Water, who delivered an empowering and practical session for Windsor High School students.
Waits captivated students with real-world advice on navigating the workforce—just in time for summer job and internship season. From avoiding common interview mistakes, to leveraging AI to enhance resumes and cover letters, to building relationships with professionals in their fields of interest—students walked away with invaluable gems.
Her session was particularly impactful for students considering non-traditional routes after graduation. She shared insight into high-paying career pathways at Niagara Water for students entering the workforce directly from high school, proving that success is attainable through multiple avenues.
Following her presentation, Waits toured the WHS Career & Technical Education (CTE) department, where she engaged in rich conversations with students and teachers alike. One of the most exciting moments came during her connection with Mr. Eric Eisnor, WHS Shop & Machines instructor. Together, they began planning a future facilities tour of Niagara’s engineering department—giving WHS students a chance to see how the hands-on skills they learn in class can translate directly into careers in industry and engineering.
“The Plug Speaker Series is about connection, access, and real opportunity,” said Gianna Gill, Coordinator of Communications and Community Partnerships. “Bringing professionals like Surlerner into our classrooms helps bridge the gap between school and the world beyond, whether our students are college-bound or workforce-ready. Today’s visit showed our students what’s possible and reminded them that their talents are needed.”
The Speaker Series was made possible by the Education to Business (E2B) Grant from the Town of Windsor, and executed in collaboration with the Windsor Chamber of Commerce. The goal of the grant is to connect Windsor’s top local industries with students through meaningful experiences and partnerships.
Daniel Demar, President of the Windsor Chamber of Commerce, added: “I continue to be blown away by the ingenuity happening at Windsor Public Schools. The Chamber is proud to serve as a bridge between these amazing students and the local industries right here in Windsor.”
As the 2024–2025 series comes to a close, Windsor Public Schools celebrates a successful launch year of The Plug and looks forward to future field experiences and deepened partnerships that empower students, elevate instruction, and bring the broader world into the classroom.
WPS Communications,
May 8, 2025