8th Grade Students Explore Career Pathways at CTE Expo

Craven County Schools Hosts Annual Career & Technical Education Expo

The future workforce of Craven County received a hands-on preview of career opportunities at the 2025 Craven County Schools Career and Technical Education (CTE) Expo on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center. This event introduced nearly 900 eighth-grade students to the diverse career pathways available in their community.

The CTE Expo, a partnership between Craven County Schools CTE, Craven County Economic Development, Craven Community College, and local industry leaders, is designed to help students explore career possibilities just before registering for high school. By engaging in hands-on experiences with professionals from various fields, students gained valuable insight into career pathways that align with their skills and interests.

Each year, this event serves a critical role in shaping the local workforce by:

1. Developing a “Grow Our Own” Workforce – Students explore careers within their community, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled local workers.
2. Highlighting Local Career Opportunities – By showcasing industries in Craven County, students see firsthand the jobs available to them post-graduation.
3. Enhancing Skills & Readiness – Through interactive modules, students developed industry-relevant skills and gained awareness of educational programs that prepare them for success.

The CTE Expo is far more than a typical career fair. Local companies, high school educators, and Craven Community College instructors collaborated to create engaging, interactive demonstrations that brought career pathways to life. Students rotated through industry booths, trying real-world tasks, meeting professionals, and discovering career fields they may not have previously considered.

The event highlighted in-demand careers that drive Craven County’s economy, from healthcare and engineering to skilled trades and technology. By making these connections early, students can make informed decisions about high school courses and future career training.

Dr. Wendy Miller, Superintendent of Craven County Schools, emphasized the importance of early career exploration, stating:
"The CTE Expo is a powerful opportunity for our eighth-grade students to connect with their future. By engaging with local industries and educators, they can see firsthand how their education aligns with real-world careers. We are committed to preparing each and every student for success, and this event is a vital step in ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their future."

At the end of the expo, eighth-graders walked away with a clearer vision for their future and a better understanding of how their education connects to real-world careers. With high school registration right around the corner, this event empowers students to choose pathways that align with their strengths, setting them up for long-term success.

This initiative underscores the commitment of Craven County Schools, local businesses, and educators to invest in the next generation, ensuring that students are career-ready and life-ready.

For more information on Craven County Schools’ CTE programs, visit www.cravenk12.org/academics/career-technical-education or contact Holly Tolston, Director of CTE, via email at holly.tolston@cravenk12.org