Event includes hands-on projects, competitions and workshops related to local career fields
In observance of National Career and Technology Education month in February, HISD’s College and Career Readiness Department is hosting the When I Grow Up Expo on Saturday, February 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hattie Mae White Educational Center (4400 W. 18th Street).
This free event will expose students to the variety of high demand careers available in Houston and will feature hands-on experiences, competitions, workshops and interactive centers.
“The When I Grow Up Expo is a unique opportunity for students of all ages to engage in the world of work in an entertaining yet educational environment,” said HISD’s Director of Career and Technical Education Michael Webster. “We hope all visitors leave with just a little more knowledge about their own work habits and interests, about the wide range of available careers and about how to get to those careers after high school.”
Various industry representatives will offer free demonstrations and career related information including the Independent Petroleum Association of America, Wal-Mart, City of Houston and Houston Community College. Workforce Solutions will also provide career planning seminars.
“In addition to career exploration, several of our campuses will be onsite showcasing their career education programs including our six HILZ schools where students can earn an associate’s degree while still in high school and move straight into the workplace in high wage occupations, “ said Webster. “These are optimal opportunities available just for our students, and it’s important that they take advantage of them upon entering high school.”
The event will also include several competitions such as the Computer Science Competition sponsored by Total Seminars, Fantasy Hair Battle, Rube Goldberg Engineering Challenge, Iron Chef Grill Off sponsored by Randalls, and Build a Better Dog House sponsored by Yarberry Construction, Marek Family Foundation, and Grainger.
Metro will be providing free transportation from Long Academy, Jackson and Woodson middle schools and Sam Houston Math, Science & Technology Center at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.