The Rhode Island Convention Center in Downtown Providence provided the scene for Junior Achievement of Rhode Island’s JA Inspire annual event. Thousands of 8th grade students throughout the Ocean State met with professionals to learn about various industries and career paths.
Attendees got to learn through games, demonstrations, and experts regarding careers and education of interest. Professions and courses of study ranged from healthcare and public safety (state police, firefighters, EMTs) to oceanography and transportation. There was something for all attendees.
Development Director Cassi Steenblok said the event that took place in early December has value to anyone who sought information on career paths and job opportunities they didn’t know existed.
“Eighth grade students are given the chance to learn for themselves what it might be like to enter these fields,” she said. “JA Inspire allows students Save 10% on select Rhode Island stores when you sign up for our free online monthly magazine.Subscribe For Free & Save 10%
With dozens of businesses and education institutions looking to find the next set of young professionals, students could decide what jobs had appeal. One particular industry seemed like a no-brainer.
Because Rhode Island is “The Ocean State,” jobs related to shipbuilding, the United States Navy, and the study of water would be logical. That is the thought of Andrea Gingras, the Assistant Director, Public Engagement at the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography in Narragansett.
The group has done the JA Inspire event for three years. Gingras said part of the reason why her staff attended this event is to get students excited about the Blue Economy.
“We think eighth grade students would be excited to learn more about the ocean and what it has to offer,” Gingras said. “There is so much to learn and understand through research. Study and working with others in the field can be both challenging and rewarding. There are several activities that could be done with a real impact on the future of the industry. They can investigate what types of fish were consumed by other fish, for example. They can get a very real sense of what’s down there.”
Traditional job routes such as The Arts were represented. At The Jacqueline M. Walsh School for the Arts in Pawtucket, students played musical instruments such electric guitar and bass, showed some of their costumes, and spoke about the positive attitudes the school brings.
One of its advisors, Chris Kane, said the school is open to anyone interested in those fields. There are auditions that potential students perform to gain admission. Despite being a Pawtucket-based school, anyone from the state can apply.
“That is what makes the school unique,” said Kane, who noted their appearance at JA Inspire for several years. “They can come here and learn new skills and hone in on the ones they already possess.”
The school is building in more ways than one.
Kane said the school recently moved into its new building at 723 Central Avenue in Pawtucket. It was formerly located at St. Leo’s Church. He added that the facility hopes to expand enrollment by 100 students over the next three years.
The cost to attend the school is free for Rhode Island schools. Kane noted five distinctive programs ranging from theatre to music that students can major. The knowledge they acquire can help them no matter what professional path they decide.
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While many jobs require a college degree, there are some industries that will consider students who earned their high school diploma.
One such industry is commercial trucking. There is a growing need for drivers, mechanics, supply chain, diesel technicians, and other services in demand.
Rhode Island Trucking Association (RITA) President and CEO Christopher J. Maxwell said they have attended this event for several years. Their hope is getting students excited about the industry as early as possible. There are plenty of ways people can contribute to this field. He said joining this type of work can be rewarding.
“There are some dedicated people who are moving freight, maintaining the fleets, and ensuring that people have access to the goods and services they need,” Maxwell said. He added the industry employs 20,000 people in Rhode Island and is based in Warwick. “We are here to help bring in the next generation of people into the industry.
“There is a great demand in our industry,” Christopher continued. “Diesel technicians are one job that offers high pay and job security. They can inquire about how to start their career path here.”
Chris mentioned their non-profit endeavor, the Rhode Island Trucking Association Foundation. By “Moving Minds,” the Foundation directly funds educational scholarships and workforce development to attract more women and younger generations of all backgrounds to a career in transportation.
More details about Junior Achievement of Rhode Island, including upcoming events and services, may be found by contacting Cassi Steenblok at cassi.steenblok@ja.org.
