Craven County Schools Hosts 2026 Career & Technical Education Expo

Craven County Schools proudly hosted the 2026 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Expo on Tuesday, February 10, at the Riverfront Convention Center in New Bern. In collaboration with Craven County Economic Development, Craven Community College, and numerous local business and industry partners, the event welcomed over 900 eighth-grade students from across the district for an engaging, hands-on career exploration experience.

The CTE Expo was designed to introduce students to the wide range of career pathways and educational opportunities available right here in Craven County. Throughout the morning, students rotated through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and informational sessions led by industry professionals, high school CTE teachers and students, and Craven Community College instructors.

Participants explored high-demand career fields and learned how Craven County Schools’ CTE programs connect classroom learning to real-world applications. From skilled trades and public safety to advanced manufacturing, early childhood education, agriculture, and business, students gained valuable insight into both high school pathways and post-secondary opportunities.

Community partners who helped make the event possible included:

• Craven Community College

• The VOLT Center

• MOEN

• NC Forestry Association

• NC Cooperative Extension (Ag Extension)

• Walker Insurance Group

• Brad Poirer Photography

• Fleet Readiness Center East (FRC East)

• Trent Cadillac

• No. 7 Township Fire Department

• New Bern Fire Department

• The Woodshop

• Craven County Schools Early Childhood Programs

Through strong partnerships between education and local industry, the CTE Expo continues to reflect Craven County Schools commitment to preparing students for college, careers, and life. By exposing students to meaningful career pathways at an early age, the district helps them begin connecting their interests, skills, and future goals.

The annual CTE Expo serves as a powerful reminder that opportunity is not just something students look toward, it is something growing right here in our community.