The event is designed to introduce approximately 2,500 sixth-grade students to various career pathways through hands-on learning opportunities, interactive exhibits, and connections with local professionals and businesses. The expo aims to help students begin planning for high school and their future careers by exposing them to various industries.
Director of Career and Technical Education Stephanie Carter emphasized that Career GPS is more than just a field trip. It calls it an opportunity for students to explore possibilities, make informed decisions, and gain confidence in selecting pathways that align with their interests. The event will feature interactive exhibits showcasing different career fields, high school student ambassadors who will share insights into academic programs, and opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals.
Community partners and exhibitors are encouraged to participate in the expo to share their expertise and inspire the next generation of professionals. Organizations interested in getting involved can find more information at staffordschools.net/careergps or contact Work-Based Learning Coordinators Ferida Cralle or Scott Flath at [email protected].
More in the press release:
Stafford County Public Schools is pleased to announce the inaugural Career GPS: Guiding Pathways to Success Expo, an engaging and interactive event aimed at sparking students’ interest in diverse career pathways as they begin preparing for high school and their future endeavors. The expo will take place on April 23, 2025, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, at Stafford Regional Airport.
The Career GPS Expo is designed to provide approximately 2,500 sixth-grade students with hands-on learning opportunities, interactive exhibits, and valuable insights into a wide range of regional industries. By connecting students with local professionals, businesses, and organizations, the expo helps lay the foundation for robust academic and career planning, ensuring students are prepared to excel into high school programs.
“Career GPS is more than just a field trip—it’s an opportunity to empower our students to imagine possibilities, make informed decisions, and pursue excellence as they explore potential career paths,” said Stephanie Carter, Director of Career and Technical Education. “We are excited to collaborate with community and industry leaders who can provide invaluable insights to help our students confidently navigate their journey and select the pathways best suited to their interests.”
Highlights of the Expo Include:
Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities and demonstrations from local businesses and organizations, showcasing career opportunities across industries.
High School Ambassadors: High school program and pathway exploration led by currently-enrolled student ambassadors.
Student Engagement: Opportunities for students to connect their strengths and interests to potential career paths and high school programming..
Community partners and exhibitors are invited to join this impactful event and share their expertise with the next generation of professionals. Participation in the expo is a unique opportunity to inspire young minds, highlight the skills and experiences necessary for success, and strengthen connections between education and the workforce.
For more information about Career GPS, or to learn how your organization may participate, please visit www.staffordschools.net/CareerGPS or contact Ferida Cralle or Scott Flath, Work-Based Learning Coordinators, [email protected].
