Hundreds of Erie County students are getting a hands-on look at careers in the skilled trades — actually trying the work for themselves. Inside the Zem Zem Shrine Club, students from nine Erie County schools moved through stations showcasing a variety of technical jobs waiting for them.
It’s all part of Erie Together’s expanded Skilled Trades Fair — now a two-day event because so many schools wanted to participate.
Teachers say these interactive learning stations help students explore career paths outside of a traditional four-year university.
For many students, this is their first time picking up these tools. They say learning basic skills now could help them in the future — whether they need to fix something themselves or step in when someone else needs help.
Organizers add that many of these careers offer paid training opportunities, allowing students to earn while they learn — and transition straight into high-demand jobs without the debt that often comes with a college degree.