Students interested in learning about career training programs and other career opportunities packed the HISD Educational Learning Center on Tuesday for the district’s second annual Ready to Work Career Fair hosted by HISD’s College and Career Readiness Department.  

The Ready to Work Career Fair gave more than 700 HISD seniors from 30 high schools the opportunity to explore different career options through hands-on experiences and information sessions.  

“What is so cool about today’s event is that it gives our students a chance to learn about career training programs,” Assistant Superintendent for College Readiness David Johnston said. “This is a special opportunity for those students who want to go and obtain a certificate or enter a workforce program.” 

Held in conjunction with the Houston Community College Career Services Department, students started with a career assessment from HCC, and then met with representatives from HCC Centers of Excellence where they learned about high-paying, high-demand career fields, like automotive technology, welding, cosmetology and biomedical electronics.  

“It has been really great to learn about the multiple programs that HCC has to offer,” Westside High School senior Pablo Parra said. “I am glad I came today. So far, the Business Management, Physical Therapy and Real Estate programs have all caught my eye.” 

Panel discussions with current HCC students were held so students could get a first-hand account of how each program could specifically benefit them, and representatives from the Marvy Finger Family Foundation, which offers HISD graduates with full scholarships covering a two-year degree or certification program, were on site to help seniors prepare their scholarship applications.  

“Today is going to impact me a lot. I think this is a great opportunity,” Westside High School senior Kenny Arellano said. “There are so many different programs that give equal opportunity to every one of these students here, including myself.”