Career expo provides interactive learning opportunities

The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual career expo, Your Future LIVE, at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center in downtown Appleton to provide area students with an interactive program to explore careers available in the Fox Cities and beyond.

The 13-year-old event, now in its second year as an expanded two-day event, allows middle and high school students from 25 schools within 14 districts to interact with more than 80 Fox Cities area businesses.

On the event’s first day, Wednesday, March 6, eighth grade students from area middle schools will visit career zones encompassing organizations from similarly grouped career clusters based on knowledge and skills needed to succeed in several areas. Businesses will engage in conversation about their careers and pathways.

Day two on Thursday, March 7, will welcome high school students from area schools to experience a conference format focusing on students making meaningful connections with local employers. Students will learn about exploration opportunities including job shadows, informational interviews, business-hosted events, internships, youth apprenticeships and employment.

“As our region, and the rest of the state, recognizes the need to fill positions in the workplace, we value the opportunity to offer an event that can establish connections between students and businesses,” said Suzanne Wittman, director of talent and K-16 relations for the chamber. “Your Future LIVE is exactly that, a place for businesses to personally interact with many students from the different school districts within our region.”