Bountiful Elementary students had the opportunity to explore a wide range of professions during the school’s recent Career Fair, where community members shared what they do, how they got started, and why their work matters.
The event introduced students to careers in healthcare, engineering, public safety, business, government, design, skilled trades, and the arts. By hearing directly from professionals, students were able to make connections between what they are learning in school and the many possibilities that exist for their future.
“Our goal for the Career Fair was to spark curiosity and inspire our students,” said Kari Harrison, Bountiful Elementary school counselor, who organized the event. “The true success was watching them discover who they can become.”
Presenters represented a wide range of fields, including:
- law enforcement
- fire and emergency response
- nursing
- civil engineering
- interior design
- dentistry
- respiratory therapy
- entrepreneurship
- construction
- plumbing
- museum development
- public leadership
- medical device engineering
“It was a delight to ask the children what they thought it would be like to work at an art museum and answer their questions,” said Kaitlin Mills, development strategist at the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art. “It’s so important for kids to have examples of all the different paths their careers can take so they can dream of all that’s possible.”
Ryan Barton, director of sales and estimating at PJF Corp., shared a similar message: “It’s important to share these opportunities with kids and let them know what options they have for a profession. It’s never too early to learn and start dreaming about what they can be.”
Events like the Career Fair help students build awareness early, broaden their understanding of the world around them, and see that there are many ways to contribute to a community.
Bountiful Elementary is grateful to the many volunteers who took time to speak with students and help make this experience possible.