Seventh graders at Kromrey Middle School got a sneak peek of careers in the trades at the school’s Trade Up event on Feb. 17.
Technical education teacher Dan Biddick organized the event to coincide with a day-long academic and career planning (ACP) experience for seventh graders to learn from skilled trades professionals and employers.
He invited plumbers, electricians and operating engineers who run heavy machinery such as cranes and excavators to talk with students. Representatives from Hooper Corporation and Findorff also presented, discussing careers at their companies such as mechanical contractors and construction jobs.
The presenters highlighted education and training requirements, salary ranges, work environments, and what their jobs entail. They also discussed apprenticeships and the requirements for obtaining journeyman licenses.
Students asked presenters questions about what they do, how much they earn, and how to start training.
"Honestly, all the careers were really interesting to me because you can keep developing your skills, and you can keep advancing onto one specification in your career, " seventh grader Harshitha Manikandan told WKOW 27 News, which covered the event.
In addition to hearing from professionals, the event’s curriculum included opportunities for students to learn about different types of post-secondary education and post-high school pathways. Students also received a preview of Middleton High School's Youth Apprenticeship program.
WMTV 15 News also covered the event. Kromrey Middle School Associate Principal and ACP coordinatorJoanna Cree told WMTV 15 News the event aimed to broaden students’ perspectives about their options after high school.
“The message we’re emphasizing is that not everyone wants to go to a four-year college, and that's completely okay,” Cree said. “The skilled trades offer great pay, job security and the chance to see something you built with your own hands.”