(Photo provided)
(Ripley County, IN) – The Career Exploration Expo hosted by Genesis: Pathways to Success, in partnership with local public and private high schools in Ripley County, was a huge success, welcoming 767 high school juniors and seniors on September 9th.
Students from across the county had the opportunity to interact with a dynamic lineup of 25 local businesses, 15 universities, four military recruiters and three inspiring entrepreneurs. Through hands-on activities and one-on-one conversations, the expo opened up a wide range of career paths.
Held at Milan High School, the expo aimed to provide students with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their futures. From interactive booths showcasing potential career fields to informative presentations on college admissions and the workforce, the event offered a comprehensive look at the diverse career paths available to them after high school. Students also participated in interactive workshops on resume-writing strategies, budgeting tips, speed interviews, and careers in the military and emergency services. Additionally, students gained valuable perspectives on college life and heard first-hand about their academic journeys from current college students.
The Career Exploration Expo is designed to set itself apart from other events of its kind in the state, providing a meaningful, experiential experience. Students participated in a variety of hands-on activities and tried their hand at everything from engineering and healthcare demonstrations to cake decorating and job skills displays. Local employers from the manufacturing, healthcare, education and technology sectors were on hand to provide insight into the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in the modern workforce. Military recruiters also played a key role, demonstrating that military service is a viable option for students who want to develop career skills and serve their country while furthering their education.
“This event has grown exponentially and it’s really great to see the community engaging with students who will be the future workforce,” said Amelia Comer, assistant program coordinator for Genesis: Pathways to Success. “Opening the door to great discussions and connections while allowing students to experience what their future could be through hands-on learning opportunities is what makes the Career Expo a unique event for Ripley County students.”
Students left the expo feeling confident and excited about their future career paths, with new knowledge and connections to help them along their educational and professional journeys.
The Career Exploration Expo will return to Ripley County in Fall 2025. Interested companies and universities will be provided with more information soon at https://genesisp2s.org/careerexplorationexpo. Genesis: Pathways to Success would like to thank Batesville High School, Jac-Cen-Del High School, Milan High School, Oldenburg Academy and South Ripley High School for participating in the Career Exploration Expo. Genesis would like to give special thanks to Milan Community Schools for hosting the event and Ivy Tech Community College for sponsoring the Hospitality Room which provided refreshments for booth hosts throughout the day.
For more information about the Career Exploration Expo, please contact Genesis: Pathways to Success by email at (email protected), by phone at (812) 933-1098, or by visiting our office at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, Batesville, IN, 47006.
(Genesis: The Road to Success Press Release)