Inspiring Springfield's Future Workforce: The Impact of the 8th Grade Career Expo

EXPAND Greater Springfield recently hosted its 10th annual 8th-grade Career Expo, a dynamic event that brought together over 1,000 students from Springfield, Northwestern, Kenton Ridge, Northeastern, Shawnee, and Greenon, along with approximately 30 employers. Held at the Hollenbeck Bayley Creative Arts and Conference Center on May 9th, the Expo aimed to give students a glimpse into the diverse world of career opportunities awaiting them.

One of the Expo's key highlights was its focus on all 16 nationally recognized career clusters. From agriculture and natural resources to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), students could explore various career paths, including architecture, business management, health sciences, information technology, and more.

The students took the YouScience assessment at their school before the Career Exploration Experience, which allowed them to understand which career clusters they were interested in before attending the event. This preparation enabled students to arrive well-prepared to interact with the 29 Clark County employers at the Expo.

Springfield’s 8th-Grade Career Expo Helps Students Find Careers That Align With Their Interests

"Our goal for this event is to lay the groundwork for these students to better understand all the amazing opportunities right here in our community which align directly with each student's aptitudes and interests," said Amy Donahoe, Director of Workforce Development.

By hosting events like the 8th-grade Career Expo, Springfield demonstrates its commitment to workforce development early in a student's educational journey. These events provide invaluable opportunities for students to connect with real employers and professionals in various fields, laying the foundation for future career exploration through high school courses, vocational training, or higher education.

For businesses considering a move to Springfield, the Expo showcases the city's dedication to fostering a skilled and knowledgeable workforce from an early age. This commitment to early career conversations and showcasing the diverse opportunities available in the region positions Springfield as a hub for worker and business success. Businesses can confidently grow and expand, knowing that a pipeline of talented future employees is being cultivated in their community.

"You see the 'aha moment' in many students' faces when they learn about a career they never knew existed, and even more so when they hear about something new that aligns with their interests and aptitudes," noted Donahoe.

The Annual Event Bring Attention to Important Workforce Development Opportunities

The positive feedback from both employers and schools highlighted the Expo's effectiveness in introducing students to the world of work early on. These interactions help students envision their future careers and provide Springfield businesses with a pool of potential future employees.

As plans are already underway for the 11th annual Expo in May 2025, the impact of this event is set to continue growing, ensuring a bright future for both Springfield's youth and its economy. By fostering a connection between education and industry, Springfield is creating a sustainable environment where businesses and the local workforce can thrive together, emphasizing the long-term impact of the event on the community.