These were just a few of the many professionals who shared their careers with Page Elementary fifth graders at the annual career fair.
Some students especially enjoyed getting to sit in the small excavator brought by Brad Jones and Krystal Schnell, a heavy equipment operator and a business agent of Operating Engineers Local 324. Others were intrigued by the presentation of Lauren Wolfenbarger and Haley Alverson, two hair stylists from Lox Salon.
There was plenty to explore during the two-day event and enough variety that students surely were able to find something they were interested in learning more about.
Each fifth grader was able to select three different presentations from different professionals each day. All students had booklets to take notes and write down their thoughts or questions. The presenters explained what their job is, what their normal day is like, what education they needed to get their job, and why they chose their profession. They also answered a multitude of questions from inquisitive students.
The variety of presenters included professionals who needed four or more years of college, those who needed a college degree and those who needed specialized additional training. Several of the presenters were also TK grads themselves who reminded the fifth-graders they were once in the same school and classrooms. Many encouraged students to find their interests and pursue a career they will love.
Presenters at this year’s event were:
Reece Cole meteorologist with FOX 17
MaKenzi Peters with Carveth Village
Cade Dammen with OAK Construction
Dr. Becca Kursch, South Kent Veterinarian
Brian Schneider Pixel Perfect Video game store owner
Dr. Jayne Courts with Trinity Health
Bill Richardson, Thornapple Township Fire Chief
Dr. Eric Hannapel, orthodontist
Lindsay Vertalka, physical therapist
Krystal Schnell and Brad Jones, heavy equipment operator and business agent of Operating Engineers Local 324
Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper
Megan Mooney with GMB Interior Designs
Steve Robinette an IT Specialist with Bradford White
Jim Teune, EMC Engineer
Matt Palmer, Accountant with Bradford White
Lauren Wolfenbarger and Haley Alverson, hair stylists at Lox Salon
Sgt. Scott Ware with Barry County Sheriff’s Department
James Vannette with Army National Guard
Susan VanDuine, a registered dietitian at Corewell Health