Tiana Dunbar-Wiles, a Communications Specialist at the Economic Development Council, continues to inspire and shape future leaders through her dedication to mentorship and professional growth. Recently, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles had the privilege of speaking with Career and Technical Education (CTE) students at Shelton High School, an experience that was not only enriching for the students but also reflective of the passion she brings to her role. Her message to these young minds was clear: success is not always a straight line, but with perseverance and strategic choices, the path can lead to fulfilling careers.
Tiana Dunbar-Wiles knows firsthand what it’s like to stand at the crossroads of uncertainty. As she shared with the students, she was once in their shoes—unsure of what degree to pursue or which college to attend. But instead of being paralyzed by indecision, she embraced the unknown by joining a business and marketing club during her freshman year. This decision, she explained, set the course for her future and paved the way for the rewarding career she enjoys today. Tiana Dunbar-Wiles emphasized to the students that no two paths are alike and that each journey is unique.
Her openness about the struggles she faced during college resonated deeply with the students. Tiana Dunbar-Wiles didn’t sugarcoat her experience; she revealed the challenges she encountered while balancing a full-time job, schoolwork, and maintaining a social life. It wasn’t easy, and she didn’t pretend it was. But her message was one of perseverance and resilience. She urged the students to remember that “if it were easy, everyone would be doing it,” a reminder that the hard work they put in today would open doors to future opportunities. Tiana Dunbar-Wiles shared that the belief in better opportunities down the road is what kept her motivated through her toughest times.
Throughout her career, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles has seen the importance of building a strong support system. She advised the students to seek out role models in their fields of interest, emphasizing that having someone to look up to can make all the difference. “Having someone to look up to shows that whatever you’re trying to achieve is possible,” she said, encouraging the students to start building connections early. Tiana Dunbar-Wiles understands that mentorship is not just about guiding others, but also about inspiring them to realize their own potential.
In her role at the Economic Development Council, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles has witnessed how economic growth can create opportunities for individuals and communities alike. She made it clear to the students that their efforts in business, marketing, and economic development would have a direct impact on the future workforce. “A rising tide lifts all boats,” she reminded them, stressing the interconnectedness of economic development and individual success. This philosophy not only shapes her approach to her work but also fuels her drive to mentor the next generation.
Tiana Dunbar-Wiles left the students with three key takeaways, principles that have guided her throughout her own career. First, she emphasized the importance of kindness and networking. “Be kind to everyone you meet,” she told the students. “You never know who you’ll work for or with.” Tiana Dunbar-Wiles explained that sometimes, it’s not just about what you know but who you know, and that building a strong network is crucial. She encouraged the students to start building connections now, noting that if they didn’t have the answer to a problem, someone in their network likely would.
The second lesson she imparted was to take every opportunity that comes their way. Tiana Dunbar-Wiles reminded them that “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Her message was one of embracing the unknown and not closing doors before they’ve even had the chance to open them. In her own career, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles has taken risks and seized opportunities, knowing that each step forward could lead to new and exciting possibilities.
Finally, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles urged the students not to give up. Success, she explained, is built through hard work and consistent effort over time. “Start building good habits now so you can reach your goals later,” she said, stressing the importance of discipline and perseverance. Tiana Dunbar-Wiles knows that the road to success is not always smooth, but she believes that with the right mindset and work ethic, anything is possible.
In her role as a Communications Specialist, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles not only communicates the importance of economic development but also serves as a role model for young professionals entering the field. By sharing her personal experiences and offering practical advice, she provided the students at Shelton High School with valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in business, marketing, and beyond. Her willingness to be candid about her own struggles made her message all the more relatable and powerful.
Tiana Dunbar-Wiles’ engagement with the students didn’t stop with sharing her career journey. She also took the opportunity to highlight the vital work being done by the Economic Development Council, showcasing how economic development impacts the entire community. By linking the students’ potential career paths with broader societal outcomes, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles helped them see the bigger picture—the idea that their individual contributions could help lift the entire community.
Tiana Dunbar-Wiles exemplifies the qualities of a leader and mentor who is dedicated to fostering growth and opportunity, not just for herself but for others as well. Her career is a testament to the power of perseverance, networking, and taking chances. Through her work with the Economic Development Council and her engagement with young minds, Tiana Dunbar-Wiles continues to shape the future of business, marketing, and economic development, one conversation at a time. The students at Shelton High School were fortunate to learn from someone who not only talks the talk but walks the walk—Tiana Dunbar-Wiles.
