Businesses, students and artists gathered recently to enhance their marketing and design skills during a workshop hosted by WCCBI recently featuring sessions on digital design, marketing strategies and effective advertising.

The workshop kicked off with Angie Bigelow, Hi-Ed assistant director and school-to-work coordinator, leading a crash course in Canva, an online design platform. Participants learned how to craft eye-catching graphics for social media, marketing materials, and presentations.

“This was a great opportunity for beginners and experienced designers alike to sharpen their skills,” said Bigelow.

Savannah Casey and Caroline Johnson, both from WCCBI, shared strategies for marketing across various networks, including radio, newspapers, print materials, and television. Casey emphasized the importance of balancing traditional media with digital platforms, while Johnson guided attendees through TikTok marketing, highlighting the potential of short-form videos to engage modern audiences.

Shown is Angie Bigelow from Hi-Ed is teaching a Canva Class.

Earlier in the day, Casey and Johnson worked with 12 students from the Warren County Career Center (WCCC), who attended with their teacher, Cathie Cummings.

“I try to cover these topics in the classroom, but I wanted them to get a broader view,” said Cummings.

The students also attended the session led by Donnie Rosie, owner of Rosie Marketing, to further explore the fundamentals of marketing.

Rosie’s session focused on the four P’s of marketing — product, price, place, and promotion. He said marketing success requires a strong foundation, not just promotion alone.

“A common misconception is that you just need promotion,” Rosie said. “But without a solid product, pricing strategy, and distribution plan, promotion won’t be effective.”

The workshop was a collaborative effort between WCCBI and the Warren-Forest Higher Education Council (Hi-Ed).

“It’s great to have everybody working together to provide these learning opportunities,” said Donna Smith, program manager.

Joan Stitzinger, executive director of Hi-Ed, highlighted the importance of such events in the community.

“This workshop fits perfectly with what Hi-Ed is all about,” Stitzinger said. “The turnout was excellent, and we were able to fill a real need in the community.”

For more information on upcoming workshops and business development programs, visit www.hi-ed.org.