Community invited to explore hands-on career demos, meet industry leaders

(Seguin) — The 4th Annual Seguin Youth Career Expo is not only going to be an opportunity for local eighth graders. This year, the event hosted by the Seguin Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) will also be an opportunity for the public to experience it too. The event will be held this Wednesday at the Seguin Events Complex.

Jessica Dersen, SEDC workforce development manager, says for the first time, the Expo will open its doors for general public admission from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. She says the open house invitation extends to homeschool families, private school students, parents, guardians, jobseekers, and any community members eager to learn more about local industries.

“The Seguin Youth Career Expo is a crucial event for Seguin’s future workforce,” said Dersen.“By connecting 8th-grade students with local businesses and professionals, we’re helping them to make informed choices about CTE pathways and future educational opportunities. We hope students are inspired by the range of careers available in their own community.”

More than 900 eighth-grade students from Seguin ISD, Navarro ISD, Marion ISD, Southwest Prep, and local homeschool groups are slated to attend and will gain insights into high-demand skills and explore diverse career paths.

During the afternoon, public sessions will offer hands-on displays, equipment demos, direct conversations with industry professionals, and an inside look at dozens of trades and career paths.

Forty local businesses and education providers will be participating on the Expo floor. They include but not limited to Caterpillar, GRMC, CMC Steel, GVEC, the Seguin Fire and Police Departments, Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Science Mill, Texas Lutheran University, Northeast Lakeview College and TEEX. Exhibitors will be showcasing everything from welding gear and public safety equipment to banking tools, engineering activities, and health care technology.

Sergio Jaurrieta, CTE director for Seguin ISD, says for parents, the event is a chance to see what future opportunities exist for their students before they enter high school. He says it doubles as an opportunity to network, learn new career pathways, or explore training and education programs in the region.

“This event is a great way for students to learn about the different career paths available in our community while inspiring them to consider Career and Technical Education programs,” said Jaurrieta. “It’s also a valuable opportunity for businesses to connect with potential future employees.”

The annual Expo is being presented with support from Gold Sponsor Northeast Lakeview College, along with Silver Sponsors Caterpillar and Master’s Electrical Services.

The public open house will be held Wednesday from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Seguin Coliseum. Admission is free.