Richmond County eighth graders got a glimpse of their potential futures Wednesday during the kickoff of “Class of 2030: Next Stop, Your Future.” The event aimed at helping students explore high-demand career pathways and hands-on learning opportunities before entering high school.
Hosted at Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School, the event introduced students to programs in Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) through exhibits, demonstrations and tours of Augusta Technical College.
Among the presenters was Dr. Stacey Mabray, director of High School Programming and Workforce Development, who said the event is designed to highlight both student achievement and opportunity.
Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson also attended and spoke to the audience.
“Nothing gives you more energy than the energy you feel when you come into a space like this,” Johnson said. “We want to create pathways for young people to become productive citizens of our community.”
RCSS Superintendent Dr. Malinda Cobb reaffirmed the district’s focus on ensuring every graduate leaves with a plan.
“We have a goal that every student who graduates is either enrolled, enlisted or ready for employment,” Cobb said. “Events like this put action to that goal and show our students what’s possible when education meets opportunity.”
The Be Pro Be Proud mobile workshop was also featured, allowing students to simulate skilled trades such as virtual welding, robotics and truck driving. The unit, brought to Augusta through a statewide partnership, offers gamified activities that connect classroom learning to real-world careers.
More than 2,000 eighth graders from across Richmond County are expected to attend the multi-day event, exploring exhibits from local schools, colleges and business partners.
