Southwest Technology Center opened its doors to a group of eager third and fourth graders from Rivers Elementary School for an immersive experience during the first ever Southwest Tech Explorers Expo. The event, designed to introduce young students to a variety of career paths through hands-on activities, welcomed enthusiastic participation from eleven of Southwest Tech’s full-time programs.
The young explorers were captivated as they rotated through each program area, gaining insight and trying out real-world skills under the guidance of Southwest Tech students. In the Cosmetology program, the children learned the basics of the color wheel, discovering how color theory applies to beauty and fashion. Meanwhile, in the Metal Fabrication area, students enjoyed a unique "welding" activity, using hot water to simulate welding techniques on chocolate bars – a delicious way to understand foundational concepts in fabrication.
This inspiring event was coordinated with the support of Rivers Elementary’s counselor, Maurisa Collins, who is a passionate advocate for Career Tech Education. Collins expressed that introducing students to these fields early on helps expand their awareness of potential future careers and fosters enthusiasm for learning practical skills.
“Seeing the curiosity and excitement in these students’ eyes is a reminder of how impactful hands-on learning can be,” said Christie RogersDirector of Student Services at Southwest Tech. “We hope to inspire the next generation and give them a preview of all the opportunities Career Tech education has to offer.”
Southwest Tech is committed to promoting career exploration and skill development in the community, and the Southwest Tech Explorers Expo is just one example of how it reaches out to inspire young learners.
