Their presentation gave students insights into entrepreneurship and the realities of running a business, complementing the class’s recent unit on creating a business. The Computer 8 course integrates practical skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and culminates in a project where students design and present a food truck business.

Students apply their knowledge to create a comprehensive business plan, including a 3D model of their truck, a budget, a marketing strategy, and an investor presentation. Hastings’ talk served as a real-world example of these concepts in action.

During their visit, the Hastings shared their journey of establishing and running Bucket Brigade Pizza Co., touching on key aspects of entrepreneurship such as financial management, customer service, and the importance of maintaining equipment. They also highlighted the role spreadsheets play in managing their business operations, reinforcing the importance of the tools students had been learning in class.

The Hastings also emphasized the challenges of entrepreneurship, providing a balanced view of both the rewards and demands of running a business. Their presentation aimed to inspire students while equipping them with practical knowledge to apply to their projects and future endeavors.

“Natalie and Eric, owners of Bucket Brigade Pizza Co., did a wonderful job speaking to our young 8th-grade entrepreneurs about the responsibilities of owning a food truck business,” said teacher Jessica McElhaney. “They delivered a message about strong customer service, organizing finances with spreadsheets, and the importance of marketing a business. It was such a pleasure to have them speak to the 8th grade Eisenhower students.”

The session connects classroom learning with real-world applications. By hosting local entrepreneurs like Hastings, the school aims to inspire students and provide them with a clearer picture of potential career paths.

“It was such a pleasure to have them speak to the eighth grade Eisenhower students,” said McElhaney.