More than 1,000 eighth grade students got a head start on career exploration this week as they filled the gymnasium at SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College going from table to table and meeting with companies to explore the various opportunities offered within the region.
Career Con, an interactive event aimed at increasing interest among youth in the local job market and career pathways, took place on Wednesday, Oct. 16. Students from 14 school districts within the Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES region participated throughout the morning. The event was a joint effort among HFM CTE, SUNY FMCC, and the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce.
“Our goal is to create awareness for students at an earlier age of the careers available right here in our region,” said HFM Career and Technical Education (CTE) Principal Michael DiMezza. “We hope that Career Con will help influence their educational choices and retain their talents to fill local jobs that can spur economic growth in our communities.”
Approximately 65 businesses and organizations were in attendance. The event included employer representation from each of the 16 nationally recognized career clusters ranging from manufacturing to public safety, construction, business management and more. According to The New York State Education Department (NYSED), a career cluster is a group of careers that share common features and require similar knowledge or skills.
Cullen Tonks, from Broadalbin-Perth Central School, said he had a good time at the event.
“I learned how to change spark plugs and do auto body work,” he said. “I also learned about firefighting, too.”
Tyree Wilson said he hopes to follow in the footsteps of his family members and work in the construction field when he’s older.
“I have a lot of family who work in construction, so I enjoyed getting to learn more about that field,” said the Gloversville Enlarged School District student.
Nicole Walrath-VanAlstyne, Director of Workforce Development for the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce, was one of the event organizers. She said she was happy with the participation from area businesses for the inaugural event.
“I’m extremely pleased with the participation of our business partners,” said Walrath-VanAlstyne. “It’s so important for our local employers to meet with students and encourage them to learn more about the local jobs available in our region. We really hope, for the future, that we can continue this yearly and that we can add more grade levels.”
