Students from Owen Middle School had the opportunity to attend the BeProudBePro event on September 11, where they explored a wide range of career paths through interactive simulators and virtual reality.
Students tested their skills in welding, truck driving, operating a bucket truck, using a robotic arm and more. The hands-on event aimed to give students early exposure to career and technical education (CTE) opportunities while encouraging them to think about future professions.
BeProudBePro is a national workforce initiative that travels across the country with mobile workshops, showcasing high-demand technical careers through immersive, hands-on experiences. The program partners with schools, employers and industry groups to help address the skills gap and inspire the next generation of workers.
"We love to get students excited about their futures, and all of the possibilities that are ahead," said Michele Smith, director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for Buncombe County Schools. "The simulations in the truck may spark ideas of career paths. Students can see what classes they can take in high school now to help get them ready."