Career Vehicle Day a hit for students, businesses

COMMUNITY

A little more post-pandemic normal came to Tuner Woods Elementary as students participated in Career Vehicle Day, a previously annual event that had been put on hold, thanks to a partnership with the Jones County Development Authority.

TWES counselor Twana Jackson reached out to JCDA director Haley Watson in December to see if the two could work together to bring the event back.

“The two of us sat down and discussed what this would look like and what businesses we would like to bring into the school,” Watson said.

The director explained Career Vehicle Day is a way to help spark and inspire passion for careers outside of the typical careers that children are exposed to daily.

“Workforce Development is a key factor in Economic Development,” Watson said. “While the children at TWES are young, it’s never too early to expose them to new and exciting careers. Within 10 years, most of the children that attended Career Vehicle Day will be ready to enter the labor force.”

This allows the JCDA to spark interest in the future workforce and encourage learning outside of the classroom. Businesses are also interested in being involved in local schools and possibly inspiring a student toward a certain career.

The authority is currently working with other elementary schools on similar events.

“Students, teachers, and industries were excited to be able to attend this event,” Watson said. “Several businesses are already asking to sign up for this at the other schools and are glad that this is being offered.”

The event is also just plain fun. Students get to be outside on a sunny day, learning about racecars, sitting in a limousine, eating shaved ice, listening to an electric car talk like Lightning McQueen or discovering electricity.

Watson explained that events like this reflect national trends around connecting students to careers.

“The world of Economic Development has changed so much over the past few years, and workforce is a big focus nationally,” Watson said. “We have to start thinking outside of the box to find ways to teach children about the many opportunities available and spark their passion early.”

Jackson also emphasized the importance of giving students variety when it comes to career options.

“Career Day is designed to expose our students to different careers and the role education plays in those careers,” she said. “They’re finding out what different jobs there are in the community beside the ones they’re familiar with.”

Many of the vehicle operators commented on the many interesting and good questions that were asked by the students, who were actively engaged in the conversation.

Jackson said many of the guests for the event were parents, which helps maintain a strong connection with home, school and community.

JCDA board of directors chair Laura Rackley shared her appreciation for local industry partners and their continued engagement in education.

“This event was a wonderful activity for the Jones County Development Authority to become involved, engaging students in career opportunities in an exciting and age-appropriate way,” she said. “The Development Authority’s involvement will aid the school system in providing the event at each of their elementary sites so that every student will have the opportunity to participate and gain exposure to a variety of careers.”

Family comments

• MeganGillhouse, parent: “The Gillhouse girls loved it!”

• EvieHenderson,a kindergartener, said, “Ms. Jackson, I really enjoyed Career Vehicle Day.” When asked what her favorite vehicle was, she smiled and said, “The limousine and the horses.”

• ChristyRickman, parent, expressed the joy in seeing pictures of the students and her husband Jeff Rickman of Greenergy Electric LLC teaching students about electricity.

Business partners:

• Hart’s Mortuary and Cremation Center

• Gray-8-SkateRoller Rink

• MikeAdamsTowing/ Hauling

• Bibb County Sheriff’s Office

• 1stChoiceHeating&Air

• VulcanMaterials Company

• Marler’s Plumbing Services

• Tri-CountyEMC

• GreenergyElectricLLC

• KalieSmith (Rattlesnake Performance Horses)

• JonesCountySchool Transportation