Cristo Rey St. Martin students are off to a strong start through a new Corporate Work Study partnership with PurposeBuilt Brands (PBB), gaining valuable professional experience at the company’s Gurnee, Illinois and Somers, Wisconsin locations.
The partnership was established through a connection with Chris Bauder, Executive Chairman of the Board at PurposeBuilt Brands, with support from Peggy Talbot, a Cristo Rey St. Martin Board Member. PurposeBuilt Brands has warmly welcomed Cristo Rey St. Martin students into its operations, demonstrating a shared commitment to student growth and career development.
Eight students are currently participating in the partnership. Four students are placed at the Gurnee location, which combines manufacturing and office space and focuses on liquid products filled into spray bottles for distribution. Another four students work at the Somers, Wisconsin site, where cleaning tablets—such as those used in coffee machines—are manufactured. At both locations, students primarily support office-based operations while gaining insight into large-scale manufacturing environments.
During their first week onsite, students met individually with PurposeBuilt Brands team members to discuss their interests and future career goals. These conversations have already led to job shadowing, mentorship opportunities, and connections with employees in related fields.
“We are thrilled to partner with Cristo Rey St. Martin and welcome their students into our Gurnee and Somers sites,” said Elem Machado Tluczek of PurposeBuilt Brands. “Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and eagerness to learn have made an immediate positive impact.”
Both Cristo Rey St. Martin and PurposeBuilt Brands look forward to continuing this partnership and supporting students as they build skills, explore career paths, and prepare for future success.