Dec. 10, 2008 — At least 1,000 students connected Wednesday with more than 20 local business and agencies during a career fair at the St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC).
"The goal of the fair is to benefit the students and their future career choices," said Earl Esdaile, chairman of the fair. "This helps transition from school to work."
The theme was "Connecting Careers With Community" at the 10th annual fair and open house. The fair provides students with the opportunity to interact with potential employers and receive information about businesses and agencies in the community.
"I'm glad we came today to explore all options open to us," said student De-ashley Williams.
The open-air wings of the campus were packed with booths running the gamut from jewelry and clothing design to welding and pipe-fitting. Students came in at scheduled times.
One of the first tables seen on entering the halls was the Department of Labor, a sponsor of the fair. Deborah C. Johnson, administrative officer for Youth Net Services, gave out information on the services available to the students at the DOL.
"This is a showcase for youth about skill training, tutoring, computer training and job-readiness skills," she said. "We refer them to other departments, helping them to branch out."
Representatives gave out information from Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital, Air Force National Guard, Pinnacle Services, University of the Virgin Islands, DeVry University, Human Services,Waste Management Authority and more.
Dee Osinski, environmental educator for WMA, told students about recycling and remanufacturing of waste as an entrepreneurial cottage-industry opportunity.
Ralph Edwards, instructor at Tang How Brothers welding and pipe-fitting, said he was disappointed the kids weren't asking him about a career in pipe-fitting, where they can make $25 to $35 an hour.
"It seemed to me they showed more interest in the freebies than anything else," Edwards said. "This problem isn't with the kids — it's the parents to blame."
But some found the students were really interested in getting information.
"I am very pleased about the number of students showing interest in the Air National Guard," said Keema Penn, recruiter.
Classrooms were open for students to see what goes on daily at the vocational school, with teachers providing information on programs in carpentry, architectural drafting, electronics, diesel technology, accounting and more. CTEC students gave hands-on demonstrations of what they do in class to visiting students from more than a dozen schools, public and private, showcasing food management and hospitality, child-care management, upholstery and cosmetology.
"A lot of girls have stopped to ask about CTEC's early-childhood-education classes," said student Chantal Davis, in her second year manning the child-care table. "I like to promote what the class offers."
Maria Ghirawoo from St. Croix Central High School said this was a good opportunity to look at her career options now that she is a senior.
"At this fair I found what areas I can benefit from," said Natasha Nieves, a senior from Central High.
Rotary Mid Isle and Hovensa also helped sponsor the fair.
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