Students in Richmond County are getting a look at myriad jobs that pay well without getting a four-year college degree.
A 40-foot trailer called the Be Pro Be Proud Georgia Mobile Workshop was set up on the campus of the Technical Career Magnet School on Oct. 26.
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Al Young, career technical agricultural coordinator with the school district, said the trailer gives students a chance to see what careers are available.
“They’re trying to make kids aware of opportunities when it comes to employment,” he explained. “We’re at a very drastic shortage when it comes to skilled trades and you have opportunities to make great money.”
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The trailer boasts displays showing opportunities in health care, automation, robotics and several other fields. Eighth grade students were brought to the high school campus to have a hands-on experience with the interactive displays.
Bailey Swallow, a 10th grader who was a team leader for the younger students, said it shows what is available for students not considering college.
“It’s better to have a career so you can make money,” she said. “I feel like the way they’re incorporating games with it is really connecting with the students and making them feel interested in it.”
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It also presents the district with a new tool in the arsenal to help students have careers with a bright future.
“We feel very fortunate to be one of three school systems across the state to have this opportunity,” said Dr. Malina Cobb, associate superintendent of academic services. “We want our students to see what else is out there. There are so many options for all off our students.”
In addition to Georgia, the mobile workshop visits schools in South Carolina and Arkansas.
Dana Lynn McIntyre is a Staff Reporter with The Augusta Press. You can reach her at dana@theaugustapress.com
