News : VSHS Career Fair gives insight into life after high school

Dawn Beyer of Rockwell Collins demonstrates a computerized flight simulator for VSHS students.

Amanda Burkey worked with her recruiter, talking to fellow VSHS students about career opportunities in the U.S. Navy. Burkey is one of the VSHS seniors who has already made up her mind about her first step after high school: Boot Camp.

But for many others, this is a time for exploring a variety of options and asking many questions. Thursday's event at VSHS was one opportunity for them to learn more about those options and ask questions

More than 30 area businesses, colleges and military recruiters set up tables in the VSHS gym on Thursday for the annual Career Fair.

Students saw and participated in demonstrations of CPR machines, welding and flight simulators, and received a variety of information about many different employment, college or military opportunities.

Vinton Police Chief Ted Paxton and Officer Ben Parmeter discussed law enforcement careers with many students who stopped to ask questions. Ben's brother, Zach, was one of the people repreesentting Benton County Conservation that day. 2012 graduate Mackenzie Stueck was among the North Benton Ambulance personnel discussing paramedic/EMT career options.

Virginia Gay Hospital had representatives there. Rockwell Collins demonstrated the most recent flight simulator and had an older version on display for comparison. Janet Woodhouse and Kathy Van Steenhuyse discussed education careers. Representatives from Mossman & Mossman discussed legal careers. Banks and other local business also sent employees to discuss details of jobs.

“Business representatives do a great job of explaining details of that particular career, including education needed, and what students need to do in high school to begin preparing for this job,” says VSHS Principal Matt Kingsbury. “Also, students in all grades will listen to information on financial aid, college planning, and learn more about what post-secondary life is like. This is our third year of hosting an event like this and we appreciate all of the businesses volunteering their time to help support our students.”

See more photos HERE.