More than 700 students discovered the multitude of higher education and employment opportunities that exist in their backyard at Garland ISD’s Student Career Expo Jan. 13. The second-annual event allowed secondary students to interact with local businesses and educational establishments.
Organized by GISD’s Career and Technical Education, Special Programs and Guidance and Counseling departments, along with the Garland, Rowlett and Sachse Chambers of Commerce and the Dallas County Community College District, the career fair promotes community success.
“This year’s Student Career Expo was a wonderful, great experience,” said Garland ISD’s CTE Director Phil Gilbreath. “It was bigger than last year, and we have heard good feedback from professional participants and students.”
The 2015 affair featured 38 regional companies and colleges, increasing participation by 65 percent. The event also drew a bigger crowd, due to the inclusion of 10 schools, which is a two-campus increase from last year.
“We expanded the offering to middle schools this year,” Gilbreath explained. “I was even told that the middle schoolers asked some exceptional questions that the representatives were not expecting. It went very well.”
During the Career Expo, attendees heard from Garland Chamber of Commerce CEO Paul Mayer before networking with potential employers and educational advisors.
“Fifty million people will leave the workforce over the next five to 10 years,” Mayer told the students. “That means that 50 million of you are going to have to step up to do those jobs and fill the occupations of the future. That is why we are here—to provide a way to get you to that next step.”
Atmos Energy, Digital Kinematics 3D, Garland Police Department, ITT Technical Institute, Plastipak Packaging Inc. and Sachse Veterinary Hospital were among the organizations represented.
“An event like this can really help students see that they have more options after high school,” said Remington College Pharmacy Technician Department Chair Helen Ann Vance. “I think this is really important. I wish I had an opportunity like this when I was in school.”
North Garland High School senior Yazmine Jackson took full advantage of the rich resources at hand.
“I found out that Richland can take care of my first two years of college. I now have two upcoming appointments with them,” she commented. “I think this event can help students who need information on financial aid or need a job. “
And though middle schoolers might not need jobs or seek help with college tuition at the moment, investing in the future generation is the fair’s No. 1 priority.
“The fact that students are able to see and visit with representatives from local companies and colleges, they are able to make a real connection to the next phase in life,” Gilbreath said. “This event is all about opportunities. I hope to continue to expand the event next year. My goal is to have 50 booths and 100 percent school participation.”