Cortez Middle School’s annual career fair, held for three days after state testing, allowed 160 to 200 eighth graders to explore an array of professions, from architecture to firefighting, in an event designed to spark curiosity and ambition.
The fair, which was organized by eighth grade counselor Robyne Cote, featured 30 careers, with 10 presentations available each day.
Cote launched the event after noticing a waning motivation in spring. Now, the event helps prepare students for high school and beyond.
“I knew that as they enter high school, they would have an opportunity to structure their graduation path based on whether they wanted to go to college, to a trade school or military, or straight into the workforce, so knowing what opportunities were out there for employment on all of those levels would be helpful,” she said.
Each day, students could select four presentations, allowing them to prioritize careers that interested them. Students were provided information about the careers and presentations a week before the careers fair. Mona Makes catered lunch, and small gift bags were provided to presenters.
Professions ranged from an architect, scientist, real estate agent, plumber, cosmetologist, veterinarian and air medic/flight EMT. The air medic/flight EMTs even landed their helicopter on the school’s football field for students to see. Other notable careers included arborist/landscaper, attorney, preschool teacher, Ute Mountain Ute councilman, pharmacist, firefighter, State Patrol, accountant, mechanic, banker, X-ray technician, restaurant owner, lineman, nurse and author.
“Students were introduced to a variety of careers, some familiar to them or their families, some new and different. They got a clear picture of the lifestyles that different careers can provide, and the importance of hard work and reliability, no matter your profession,” Lissa Lycan, English Language arts department chair, told The Journal.
Students could be heard expressing their excitement about the event.
“It was fun getting to interact with different adults and ask them questions,” one student said. Another appreciated the professionals’ patience, saying, “When I asked dumb questions, they weren’t snarky or rude but actually answered.”
Interactive elements, like holding the firefighters’ Jaws of Life or participating in a preschool activity, were highlights. Interactions between students and professionals were effective too, Lycan said. Some students learned about internships, summer jobs and contacts for future opportunities.
“My favorite thing is watching kids get really interested in something they have never considered before and start to wonder and ask questions,” Cote said. Teachers said they could see “light bulbs start to come on” for students as they explored the variety of careers.
Even those who presented expressed their thoughts.
“We always have a good time presenting and appreciate the continued opportunity for us to engage with these young folks,” Nicole Hafner, senior BSA/compliance specialist for Four Corners Community Bank, said. “There were even a few students that approached us after presenting to ask more questions and chat a bit which was nice.”
Lycan also highlighted the broader lessons of the career fair.
“I hope that students learned that, whether they want to become a scientist or a lawyer, a lineman or an EMT, a plumber or an author, our school PRIDE values of perseverance, respect, integrity, dependability and empathy will be central to their success,” Lycan said.
The event also strengthens community ties, allowing students and teachers to network.
“We also love hosting community members in our school where they are able to see and interact with our students and teachers and see all of the good things happening here,” Cote said. “It is a total win-win.”
