Arkansas Tech University hosted the third annual ATU Green Careers Expo on Tuesday, October 22nd.
More than 250 high school students in grades 8 through 12 participated in the event, which was held in partnership with the Arkansas Forestry Association Educational Foundation and the Arkansas Environmental Education Association. Participants explored careers in the environment, natural resources, and conservation fields.
Twenty-eight exhibitors representing state and federal agencies, local businesses, and conservation organizations provided students with information about a variety of green career paths.
ATU Agriculture and Tourism Director Dr. Michael Bradley expressed his gratitude to ATU Student Affairs, ATU Facilities Management, the Arkansas Forestry Association Educational Foundation, the Arkansas Environmental Education Association, and Dr. Jay Post. The role they played in making the event possible.
“A green career is a role within an industry that focuses on environmental stewardship, sustainable resource management, and conservation,” said Bradley. “These careers include fields such as environmental science, forestry, wildlife conservation, renewable energy, and environmental engineering. We work on solutions that promote and protect natural resources, and our work is essential to meeting today’s ecological challenges.”
Bradley said students interested in pursuing a green career path at ATU may choose to pursue a certificate or degree in natural resource management or fish and wildlife management. Ta.
“These programs provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a difference in the fields of conservation, sustainability, and environmental science,” said Bradley. “Welcoming high school students to campus is essential to broadening their horizons about future careers and giving them the impetus to think about higher education. Events like the Green Careers Expo encourage students to explore their interests in a college environment. This exposure is particularly valuable in developing future leaders who are passionate about sustainability and environmental stewardship.”