Murphy – The Fall Career Expo, on Nov. 6, at Murphy First Baptist Church aimed to connect local students with career opportunities and introduce them to a variety of diverse fields.
Cherokee County students came out to the event in the morning and other members of the community attended the expo in the afternoon.
It was an opportunity for businesses and organizations to engage with a broad audience, including students, parents, and local residents, who are eager to learn more about career options. It also allowed attendees to imagine what a career in a particular field may look like.
The day started out with young folks from area schools walking the grounds as well as inside the venue. Stations were set up with the business or organization’s pamphlets, brochures, give-a-ways, treats and other items.
Students appeared to congregate around the jobs involving first responders such as fire departments, EMS and law enforcement. Tools of the trades were readily available for folks to pick up, hold and simulate scenarios like gaining entry into a home or seeing the equipment inside of an ambulance. It offered touchability of items often times only seen on television and in movies.
The Tennessee Valley Authority was teaching students about energy, the environment and economic development. They gave folks an opportunity to spin a wheel for a subject question. Spinners received a free fishing lure for their participation.
Other businesses at the event presenting their employment offerings to the community included:
Alicia Norton-Educational Specialist, Andrews Truss, Inc., Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, Cherokee County Emergency Management, Cherokee County EMS, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Cherokee Scout, Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital, First Citizens Bank, Harrah’s Casino, Industrial Opportunities, Murphy Rehab and Nursing, N.C. Highway Patrol, N.C. State Bureau of Investigations, N.C. Cooperative Extension, N.C. Works, Panel Built, Ranger Volunteer Fire Department, State Employees Credit Union, State Farm, Tri County Community College, TVA, U.S. Air Force, Army and Marines as well as Western Carolina University. Lunch was provided by Zach Lovingood from AgSouth Farm Credit.
The event was busy as folks moved from table to table searching for valuable information on potential career options.
There were about 350 students from different schools in attendance.
The event was led by Dana Anderson, career development coordinator for career and technical education for Cherokee County Schools.