There is a need to bring "Real Life" experiences into K-12 classroom. A gap exists between what is taught in school and and the real world of industry. Guilford County Schools partnered with Guilford Education Alliance and the IEEE NC Central Section to create and conduct The "Engineering Connections" program; is is documented in the link below. It's purpose is to develop Skills for 21st Economy by bringing "Real Life" into the classroom through Lunch & Learn/Classroom Connection, and Staff Development Sessions; and Job Shadowing/Mentoring. During 2008-2011 the program was well received and connected students to the future economy. The Lunch & Learn approach works with other subjects besides Engineering. I recommend it as a way to close the gap between K-12 education and Industry "Real Life".