Lee County students are experiencing trade work first-hand at a vibrant career fair held at Jet Blue Park. This unique event underscores the promise of lucrative career paths immediately after high school, a revelation that many find both surprising and invigorating.
Lee County students explored various trade opportunities during a hands-on career fair at Jet Blue Park.
In a collaborative effort, the Lee County School District partnered with the Lee Building Industry Association to orchestrate this career fair. The event was more than a presentation; it was an immersive experience. Students not only admired the tools of the trade but also engaged in hands-on exhibits, operating them under the guidance of seasoned professionals and educators. This direct interaction ignited curiosity and unveiled skills they didn’t know they possessed.
Informational booths provided a treasure trove of resources, highlighting job training programs, internships, apprenticeships, and promising post-graduation pathways for those aspiring to step into the construction arena. These varied opportunities laid bare the expansive options available beyond a traditional college route, which some might overlook.
While the fair lasted only a day, its impact resonates. Parents and guardians are encouraged to reach out to their children’s schools about the Career and Technical Education programs available, keeping the conversation about these opportunities alive long after the fair has ended.
For some students, like Amyia Liebensohn, who is navigating her 10th-grade year in the Young Parent Education Program, the fair was a revelation. “I experienced HVAC,” she shares with a hint of excitement in her voice. Her fascination grew as she interacted with a robotic dog on display, a novelty that elicited intrigued reactions from her peers.
Although uncertain about her future career path, HVAC caught her interest as one vendor offered encouragement, noting her potential. This simple affirmation sparked a flame of confidence within her—she remarked, “I was scared at first, but I was like, nah, I’m gonna try it,” reflecting the internal struggle and eventual triumph many students experience.
“These stations can be life-changing,” remarked Liebensohn thoughtfully, adding a weight to her words that resonated deeply with both her peers and mentors. Mike Antonucci, the manager at Rocket Cooling, echoed her sentiment, recalling how he had encouraged her to push through her initial fear. “You did great,” he said, perhaps seeing in her not just a student, but a reflection of hope for the future.
Phillip Ford, the executive vice president of the Lee Building Industry Association, emphasized their collective mission, stating, “We must show students that opportunities abound.” He illustrated that a rewarding life path does not solely lie within the confines of a college education. Professions such as plumbing and electrical work offer financial stability and growth, a notion often dismissed by those chasing traditional academic routes.
As Maansa Cheresias, a 10th-grade student from Lehigh Senior High, expressed, “I’m learning a lot about building houses and the mechanics and electrical nature.” Her enthusiasm is palpable, showcasing a love for the hands-on learning experience that resonates with many students. In her eyes, this isn’t just a fair; it’s the beginning of a potentially life-altering journey.
In moments like these, the fair’s significance transforms; it becomes a symbol of hope, inspiration, and a gateway to futures previously unimagined. With every tool they handle and every expert they speak to, students are not just learning—they’re envisioning a life filled with possibilities, rich with purpose and acute relevance.
