Students get hands-on career exposure in Eastern North Carolina program
EASTERN NC (WWAY) — Thousands of students across Eastern North Carolina will participate in a monthlong series of career-focused events this month as part of Industry in Schools Month, a regional initiative highlighting workforce training and STEM education.
STEM East, an initiative of the NC East Alliance, said the program runs April 13-30 and includes 64 events in partnership with school districts, community colleges and industry leaders across the region. Organizers say the events will include hands-on activities, guest speakers and direct exposure to a range of industries.
Officials with STEM East say the effort is designed to connect education and workforce development and help students explore career pathways in the region.
“Industry in Schools Month reflects our vision to make learning real, relevant, and rigorous for every student in our region,” STEM East Executive Director Bruce Middleton said in a statement. “By building strong partnerships between educators and industry, we are not only exposing students to future careers but also strengthening the talent pipeline that will drive economic growth across eastern North Carolina.”
The initiative is part of a broader branding effort tied to Eastern North Carolina under the theme “Deeply Rooted in place, people, and possibility,” according to organizers. They say the program is also intended to encourage students to consider career opportunities locally.
STEM East officials say the events are intended not only to introduce students to career options but also to support teachers in incorporating real-world applications into classroom instruction.
“Industry in Schools Month is not just about exposure. It’s about transformation,” STEM East Director of Instructional Engagement Whitney Hernandez said in a statement. “When educators and students engage directly with local industry, it changes how teaching and learning happen.”
Organizers say the program is part of an ongoing effort to align education with workforce needs in Eastern North Carolina.
More information about event schedules is available by contacting program officials.
