Career Exploration Month provided an incredible opportunity for Clark County School District (CCSD) students to discover career paths in the trades. With 11 schools participating, students connected with representatives from diverse apprenticeship programs, including electricians, plumbers, ironworkers, and more.
These programs offer a unique advantage: students can earn while they learn. Apprentices receive hands-on training, earn college credits, and complete their apprenticeships just a few classes away from an associate’s degree at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN). This integrated approach ensures that students are job-ready and academically equipped upon graduation.
For educators, the event focuses on more than just career preparation; it aims to build confidence and equip students with transferable skills. “Although I’m teaching them welding, I’m teaching them things they can use in any union,” said Jason Finger, a teacher at Desert Rose HS. This emphasis on versatility ensures students have multiple pathways to succeed.
The event also highlighted the growing demand for skilled workers in Southern Nevada. Industry representatives emphasized the need to promote apprenticeship programs and the significant advantages they bring. By combining practical experience with formal education, students leave these programs poised for rewarding careers in the construction and trades industries.
Events like these are crucial in preparing CCSD students for a variety of futures. Whether they pursue a traditional college degree or jump into an apprenticeship, they are equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed in any path they choose.
