‘Empower the Possible’ Returns, Sept. 26

ODOT release – CANYONVILLE — The second Southern Oregon Trade Careers Expo, showcasing living wage career opportunities to high school students and veterans, kicks off Thursday, September 26. Nearly 2,000 students from 47 schools and six southern Oregon counties are scheduled to attend the full day, hands-on event at the Seven Feathers Convention Center. “To have everything at that one venue (in 2017) was a great opportunity. And by far, it was one of the best trade fairs I’ve been to since I’ve been teaching,” said Kirstie Christopherson, North Medford High School Career and Technical Education teacher. The morning session will include high school students from throughout southern Oregon. The afternoon session is designed for veterans and active duty military personnel and people referred from public/private agencies. “This is an excellent opportunity to expose junior and senior high school students and veterans to the many family, living wage opportunities available in the southern Oregon construction and utility trades,” said ODOT Regional Workforce and Civil Rights Specialist Christie Meacham. ODOT is one of many sponsors for the “Empower the Possible” event, which is not open to the public. All attendees will explore 10 acres – inside and out – of exhibitor activities. They will test their abilities with interactive displays and hands-on engagement. In addition, they will have an opportunity to speak with industry professionals about what trade jobs are really like and learn how to qualify for trade career training and apprenticeships. In 2017, more than 770 students and 100 job seeking veterans and disadvantaged youth attended the 2017 Expo from Jackson, Josephine and Douglas Counties. This year participants from Coos, Curry and Klamath Counties will also be in attendance.