REGION- On May 4, MiCareerQues Northeast introduced students to in-demand careers in northeast Michigan. This hands-on exploration event was coordinated by Michigan Works! The program targeted 6th-12th grade students, offering interactive exhibits in construction, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology.
The purpose of the event is to create awareness of the rewarding careers available throughout our region, many of which have a talent shortage today and are anticipated to have even greater demand in the future. This year the event was held at the Ellison Place in Gaylord, MI.
Over 1400 students from 22 schools across the 11-county region (Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, and Roscommon) attended. The event featured 55 exhibiting organizations, showcasing more than 125 in-demand occupations.
MiCareerQuest is unlike anything most students have experienced before. Students explored four industry quadrants and were able to touch/feel/use actual tools, machines, and materials that they’d encounter during a day working in that industry.
In addition to interactive exhibits, students had the opportunity to talk one-on-one with experts from the region’s high-demand occupations.
Student and teacher feedback was overwhelmingly positive. “This is the best career experience I have ever seen in my 43 years as an educator. Touching on all the different career opportunities in each of the 4 pathways was enlightening!” – Marilyn Dimick, School Counselor with Rogers City Schools.
Participation in MiCareerQuest Northeast is free for exhibitors and students. The costs associated with hosting MiCareerQuest are covered by a variety of event sponsors who understand the importance of exposing young people to career opportunities in our region.
