Bricklayers, firefighters, carpenters, estheticians, and real estate agents were just a few of the 30-some occupations represented at the third annual Stagg High School Vocational Fair. Professionals spent the day discussing their careers with interested students, as well as detailing their career paths and available training.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes attended the fair, along with other students who opted to participate. The Vocational Fair increases the opportunities for students to learn about a wide variety of post-secondary opportunities. Four-year college is not an option for all students. The Fair identifies and exposes students to career options that can be obtained via different paths. These careers are well-established and can provide career satisfaction without a four-year degree.
Seniors Yasmira Magana and Anaees Medina circulated among the cosmetology tables. Medina noted, “There was a lot of information available and it was good to hear the main focus of the programs.”
Co-organizer of the event College and Career Coordinator Rich Kowalczyk said, “The interaction between the representatives and students is invaluable. Our students have great questions and the reps provide great information. The reps are very personable and encourage students to reach out to them at any time when they have additional questions.”
Senior Pawel Bucko is interested in the Air Force but made his way to the Army and Marine tables too. “It was helpful meeting everybody. Four-year college isn’t for everyone and this fair helps. There is so much variety,” he said.
The representative from the Moraine Valley Community College Security Loss and Prevention program made sure to point out to students that they can begin working as early as 18 years old. “Our goal is to help the young and undecided to start talking about possible career paths and open up opportunities for them,” he added.
The Vocational Fair is an event where students learn about a range of career options across multiple career clusters. Professionals from various vocations and trades share information about their jobs, preparation, training, and qualities needed for the career path.