New Hampshire Career Academy joins our Board of Advisors 🎉
Spotlighting the visionary organizations on the Board of Advisors at the heart of our mission. Through innovation, thoughtful strategy, and winning workplace cultures, these employers are shaping the future of the 603.
Our Board of Advisors represents a dynamic group of organizations committed to driving workforce development, championing young Granite Staters, and who are invested in Stay Work Plays vision for a NH where young people want to—and can—stay, work and play.
We’re thrilled to have a conversation with Patrick O’Mara, Executive Director of NH Career Academy—a one-of-a-kind educational institution offering high school seniors a dual-degree curriculum to attain a high school diploma and an Associate Degree or vocational certificate from the Community College System of New Hampshire at no cost. Get to know them, and Patrick, below and see why they recently joined our Board of Advisors at Stay Work Play!
SWP: Why is supporting young talent and organizations like Stay Work Play important to your company’s mission?
PO: Supporting young talent and organizations like Stay Work Play is directly aligned with New Hampshire Career Academy’s mission. Granite Staters are proud, hardworking people and we believe they shouldn’t have to leave the state to thrive. By investing in our young people and helping them build meaningful pathways right here in New Hampshire, we strengthen our communities, our economy, and the industries that matter most to our future.
SWP: In what ways does your company empower the next generation of leaders in New Hampshire?
PO: New Hampshire Career Academy empowers the next generation of New Hampshire leaders by making college and career pathways accessible, especially for students who might see higher education as out of reach. We cover the cost of an associate degree, provide essential resources like laptops and textbooks, and connect students with internships and apprenticeships at some of the state’s top companies. Our graduates leave career-ready, with the skills and experience to lead in their communities from day one.
SWP: Tell us a fun fact or hidden gem about your company that people might not expect!
PO: New Hampshire Career Academy is completely free. There is no cost to the student and their family at no additional cost to the taxpayer. That’s rare. And honestly, we might be the hidden gem. Too few people know this opportunity exists, and we’re working hard to change that so more young Granite Staters can take advantage of it.
SWP: Why do you love to stay, work, and play in New Hampshire?
PO: New Hampshire is the best state in the country. You get all the benefits of being in New England while still holding onto that rugged, independent charm. Mountains, beaches, four distinct seasons; it’s a dream backdrop for building a life.
And beyond lifestyle, the opportunity here is real. With an aging population and a wave of retirements ahead, there’s a growing need for skilled, motivated young people to step in and lead. The future of New Hampshire belongs to those who stay and shape it.
SWP: Any key itineraries that you would recommend on a Saturday in NH?
PO: As a lifelong Granite Stater, I’m proud to say there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy a weekend here. Whether it’s at Greenfield State Park or soaking up the sun at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire’s natural beauty is second to none. I always recommend the Milford Drive-In Theater for a nostalgic movie night, and Sundae Drive in Brookline is a must-stop for soft serve. The Nashua Farmers’ Market is also a wonderful way to experience local flavor and support small businesses.
SWP: What’s your hope for the future of our state?
PO: My hope for New Hampshire’s future is a thriving economy driven by people who take pride in their work and their communities. I want to see a state where young people feel empowered to stay, build careers, and raise families; not because they have to, but because they want to. A place where opportunity, innovation, and local pride go hand in hand.