Ice cream, insights, and exciting career opportunities – that's the winning combination that made the "Get the Scoop on Career and Technical Education" event a sweet success! On September 25th, 2023, Provo High School transformed into a hub of excitement as parents and students gathered for an unforgettable experience. The event, catering to 7th and 8th-grade students and their parents, aimed to provide hands-on experiences and insights into the world of high-demand, high-skill, and high-wage careers in Utah.
Clay Bingham, CTE Director at Provo School District, highlighted the event's significance by noting, "The experiences gained through Career and Technical courses set up students for a lifetime of career success." This event was more than just a gathering; it was a stepping stone towards a future filled with possibilities.
A Scoop of Opportunity for Students and Parents
The heart of the event lay in its collaborative approach, bringing together educational stakeholders from local school districts, UVU, and MTECH. With over 60 booths awaiting exploration, attendees had the opportunity to dive into various "career clusters" and "pathways." From UVU's Aviation program to MTECH's Diesel Tech program and Provo School District's BioTechnology, the range of options was diverse. Parents and students alike had the chance to interact with professionals, gather information, and discover the multitude of career paths available. It was a hands-on experience that went beyond traditional career fairs, providing a taste of what the future could hold.
Students were treated to a smorgasbord of exciting and informative booths. The AI and Marketing booth delved into the cutting-edge world of artificial intelligence, offering hands-on experiences to spark interest in technology-driven marketing careers. Provo CAPS took participants on a journey through diverse career strands, providing insights into fields like Health Science, Engineering, Digital Design, and Business. Concurrent Enrollment at UVU turned education exploration into a game with Plinko and the Spin Wheel, making higher education engaging and fun. The Preschool Lab booth aimed to foster an understanding of early childhood education, emphasizing the impact educators have on a child's development. Automated Quality Assurance showcased the vital role of technology in ensuring product excellence through an interactive computer-based game. Cosmetology let students explore the artistic side of cosmetology with hair extensions and vibrant colors. Web Programming and Development offered programming challenges and hands-on games, fostering essential skills in the digital realm. Culinary Arts Institute combined creativity and taste by allowing participants to dip strawberries in chocolate. These highlighted events provided a snapshot of the diverse, hands-on learning experiences that made the event both enjoyable and educationally enriching.
Scooping Up Success with Career Insights
The event not only showcased different career options but also emphasized the importance of Career and Technical Education in shaping successful futures. The collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners demonstrated a commitment to preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern workforce.
Wendy Simmerman, Senior Director - Workforce Alignment at Utah Valley University, highlighted the fun and engaging nature of the event, making it a unique way for students to learn about transforming their high school experiences into rewarding careers.
A Sweet Celebration with Over 4,000 Attendees
As the sun set over Provo High School, more than 4,000 students and family members reveled in the festivities. Beyond the promise of free ice cream, attendees explored new technologies, won exciting prizes, and took home hands-on projects. The event was a celebration of education, innovation, and the incredible career and technical education available in the region.
Clay Christensen, President of MTECH, summed up the day perfectly, calling it a fantastic showcase of the region's amazing career and technical education opportunities.
In Gratitude and Anticipation
In addition to these engaging booths, attendees had the chance to snag "Get the Scoop" T-shirts, enjoy delicious BYU Creamery ice cream, strike a pose at the photo booth, and participate in CTE Works For Utah Plinko for candy. The event truly lived up to its promise of providing a scoop of knowledge and a taste of the exciting careers that await the students in the Mountainland CTE Region. As we reflect on the success of the "Get the Scoop on CTE" event, gratitude is extended to Provo School District, industry partners MTECH and UVU, and everyone who contributed to making this event a memorable experience. The sweet taste of success lingers, and we eagerly anticipate the next scoop-filled adventure into the world of career and technical education!
