A bit of rain didn’t dampen spirits as about 2,500 Grade 7 and 8 students explored future career paths during the annual Epic Jobs event on Thursday at the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre.
The hands-on experience allowed students to try welding simulators, use virtual reality goggles, mount tires, braid hair, and even climb in and out of real-life heavy equipment like cranes, ambulances, and hydro trucks.
The goal is to spark interest in trades, apprenticeships, and career pathways that students may not otherwise consider, said Danette Dalton, executive director of the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie.
“Each year it is amazing to see the eyes of students light up at Epic Jobs,” she said.
Students came from across Brantford, Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, Six Nations and Mississaugas of the Credit. More than 40 organizations participated, each encouraged to create interactive exhibits that engage and inspire.