In 2009, Career Partners launched Career Expo, creating a large-scale opportunity for students to explore a wide range of careers and connect directly with professionals from the local business community.
Each year, Career Expo welcomed nearly 1,200 eighth, tenth, and twelfth grade students and more than 40 local employers. Students had the opportunity to learn about careers they may not have previously considered, ask questions about different industries and occupations, and hear firsthand from the professionals working in those fields.
The event also demonstrated the important role Culpeper’s business community could play in career exploration. Participating employers contributed their time and expertise to help students better understand the opportunities available to them and the skills and education needed to pursue different career paths.
Although Career Expo is no longer offered as a standalone event, its focus on connecting students directly with local employers became an important part of Career Partners’ approach to career exploration. As programs evolved, that same goal—giving students firsthand exposure to careers and the people working in them—continued to shape new opportunities for Culpeper County students.
