Kids explore future career options at Career Day

Credit: photo Britt Combs

Grace Community Church again hosted McDowell's annul Career Day, allowing fifth-graders to get the inside scoop on career choices that may appeal to them. The North Carolina Army National Guard's Sgt. Steve Bush attracted a big crowd by spicing his talks with interesting tidbits like what "humvee" means (High Mobility Multi-wheeled Vehicle) and by challenging the kids to do push-ups.

By: Britt Combs | McDowell News
Published: March 16, 2010

Fifth grade is not too early to start thinking about what you're going to do to earn a living. Kids from throughout McDowell County got the chance to learn more about career opportunities up close and personal at the Career Fair held at Grace Community Church in Pleasant Gardens Tuesday.

Presenters from both the public and private sectors were on hand to explain their work and answer questions. As in past years, the ones who brought big machines and heavy weapons got a lot of attention.

Kids were delighted to climb in and out of military trucks while Army National Guard Recruiter Sgt. Steve Bush discussed the finer points of army life, including push ups.

Lamar Silver was on hand to talk about automobile paint and body work.

"I tell the kids you've got to like what you do and do what you like, or else you'll be unhappy," he said.

The kids went from station to station, visiting with professionals like N.C. Highway Patrol Trooper Phillip Ruppe, Wildlife Resources Commission agents Jay Glenn and Joey Stepp, and many others.

In an impromptu session, Nebo fifth-grader Kolth Hildebrand got his first taste of news and journalism when he borrowed The McDowell News reporter's camera and shot a few pictures.

"I'm going to be a photographer," he stated.

Firefighter John Dillingham of the P.G. Volunteer Fire Department said he had met a few future firefighters, but it's not for everyone.

"A lot of them ask if it's dangerous," he explained, "and when I tell them, 'Yeah, it's dangerous,' they just turn around and walk off."

Lynn Martin, a North Cove fifth-grader, said she didn't know what career path she would choose, but it would be one that would allow her to make a positive impact.

"As long as I'm helping people and I'm not doing something I don't like," she said, "I'll love it, whatever job I get."

Kids explore future career options at Career Day

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