It started with a simple outreach—but what followed is a powerful example of what happens when students are invited to the table.

When a group of high school students from Innovation Academy approached the Robertson County Economic Development office asking how they could help, Assistant Director Sarah Warren didn’t hesitate in her response.

Her first reaction? Appreciation.

“I loved that this class was seeking to help their community in a meaningful way while using and growing new skills,” Sarah shared. “That kind of initiative says a lot about who they are and what they’re capable of.”

That initiative quickly turned into action.

Working alongside the county, students began reimagining the Experience Robertson County brand website—tools designed to showcase everything the community has to offer. Through brand audits, research, and hands-on collaboration, they brought fresh perspectives to how Robertson County tells its story.

“What impressed me most was how thoughtfully and professionally they approached the work,” Sarah said. “They listened closely, asked clarifying questions, and offered ideas grounded in research and a real desire to make an impact.”

One of those students, Anthony, a senior at Springfield's Innovation Academy, sees tourism as more than just attracting visitors—it’s a cycle.

“It’s an ecosystem that feeds itself,” he explained. Sarah agrees, noting that strong tourism supports jobs and local entrepreneurship and small business development, stimulates the local economy, and increases revenue that can be reinvested into public services and amenities that enhance livability for residents. In the most recent data provided by The Department of Tourist Development, visitor spending in Robertson County generated over $7 million in taxes, over $2.8 million of which stayed locally to support community needs like public safety and public education.

Together, the students are helping enhance features—like curated “trails” that allow users to map out their own local experiences, whether that’s shopping, dining, or entertainment. Their goal is to make exploring Robertson County more intuitive, engaging, and accessible.

They’re also identifying what isn’t working.

With fresh eyes, students like Kitiara, another senior on the project, are spotting glitches and opportunities to improve the platform’s user experience—while also brainstorming ways to better connect with younger audiences.

And at the heart of it all is a simple but powerful mindset.

“Both/And.”

It’s a phrase Sarah returned to often—emphasizing a vision where the brand serves both residents and visitors, both business owners and customers, both the downtown square and rural communities. Ultimately, residents, destination businesses, event volunteers, and hotel and short-term rental hosts are our community’s primary ambassadors. These frontline individuals play a vital role in welcoming visitors and authentically showcasing our community.

This collaboration also reflects Robertson County’s participation in the Tennessee ThreeStar Program, which focuses on building capacity, encouraging collaboration, and thinking long-term about community success. Both Tourism and Workforce Development, including collaboration with local education partners, are two of the six key focus areas for the county, with established community goals and quarterly reporting in place.

“This partnership shows what’s possible when education, local leadership, and economic development come together,” Sarah said.

But perhaps the most meaningful outcome isn’t just the site refresh—it’s the shift in perspective.

“When young people start thinking like problem-solvers and leaders early on, it creates momentum that carries forward for years to come,” Sarah shared. “They begin to see themselves as part of the solution.”

And in Robertson County, that solution is already taking shape—one idea, one collaboration, and one student at a time.

Learn more about Innovation Academy.