Annual 8th Grade Career Exploration Fair
April 24, 2023 | 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. | Regency Conference Center
The O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce, Junior Achievement, Scott Air Force Base STEAM Advisory Group, and the Regency Conference Center hosted its 11th Annual 8th Grade Career Exploration Fair on April 24, 2023. This is the first in person career fair since 2019. A virtual fair was hosted in 2021. 653 eighth-graders from across O’Fallon and Shiloh public and private schools attended the fair.
Chamber President/CEO Debbie Arell-Martinez tells us, “This event is truly the result of the partnership between the business community and the local schools. It was so good to be back in person this year. Last year’s virtual fair was still helpful, but it wasn’t as impactful as an in-person fair is. We had 63 role models covering a variety of industries to include medical, technology, and the trades. This fair gives the students access to careers they may never have heard of before – our career fair could very well be the start of a dream.”
The career fair provides an excellent opportunity for students to explore careers, interview business leaders, and set goals for their career aspirations. Dr. Cindy Doil, Scott AFB School Liasion Officer says, ” The OFallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce 8th Grade Career Fair was an AMAZING event with professionals from all walks of life sharing their experiences with students who were enlightened by learning about so many varied careers! Students chose a variety of fields to examine more closely. Many professionals provided hands on experiences and engaging centers to help students learn.
This event is phenomenal and connects young people with our community as they determine their desired path in life! It helps students center their lives at a critical stage of their lives as they pursue their dreams.”
Junior Achievement is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their futures, and make smart academic and economic choices. Junior Achievement in Southwestern Illinois supports our area schools and educators by providing valuable kindergarten through high school classroom resources that are well-tested, hands-on programs taught by caring community and business volunteers. With a range of different programs, Junior Achievement teaches about concepts relating to entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and work readiness. JA’s programs are correlated to the Illinois Learning Standards and Grade Level Expectations.
