Exploring future careers

Architecture, photography, fire fighting and more were featured at the Washougal High School Career Day last week. It was organized by Marsha Spencer and Sharon Watts of the WHS Career Center.“We wanted to create a unique opportunity for students to meet people from all career paths who love their jobs,” said Spencer.

This is the second year for the event, which drew nearly 40 professionals from Washougal, Camas, Vancouver and Portland.

“The students can read about different careers, but it is just not as good as listening to people talk about what they do,” said Watts. “These professionals explain to the kids how they got to where they are and their training. They even talk about what they like best and least about their work so students know what to expect.”

Each student was able to go to two presentations. Some of the more popular choices were the military, photography, police, nursing, chef and fashion design.

An added connection for the students was the number of WHS alumni who came back to share information about their career paths, according to Watts. Returning graduates were Deja Hubbard, flight attendant; Mike Lamb, realtor; Kenny Jensen, sheet metal worker; Perri Prince, electrician apprentice; Tina Palmer, nail technician and Kimberly Syfrett, hair stylist.

“Most of our volunteer presenters were very excited to help,” Watts said. “They are all passionate about what they do and enjoy sharing it with the students.”