More than 1,000 local eighth graders explored hands-on career opportunities at the second annual Youth CareerQuest expo. See how this Chamber-led event is inspiring the next generation of New Braunfels’ workforce and why local employers are eager to be part of it.
More than 1,000 eighth graders from New Braunfels and Comal ISDs took part in the second annual Youth CareerQuest expo, held Thursday at the New Braunfels Civic and Convention Center. The event, organized by the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce and the Business-Education Partnership Committee, connected students with local employers and educators for a day of career discovery and hands-on learning.
CareerQuest is designed to help students explore potential career paths before they choose their high school programs of study. Dozens of area employers participated, including New Braunfels Utilities, Resolute Baptist Hospital, Roofer Chicks, and AUMOVIO, offering interactive demonstrations and conversations about what it’s like to work in their industries.
“This event gives students a real look at the opportunities that exist right here in our community,” said Mike Crowley, Vice President of Workforce & Industry Development at the Chamber. “When local employers and students connect, it helps our future workforce understand that great jobs and meaningful careers are waiting for them close to home.”
The number of students attending this year more than tripled from the inaugural event, showing strong interest from both schools and businesses. Over 1,000 7th- and 8th-grade students from five area middle schools received a “career passport” to encourage them to visit multiple booths, where they could try new activities and learn about a wide range of professions from healthcare and construction to technology and communications.
Educational institutions also joined in to help students link their career interests to high school endorsements and college pathways. Representatives from Alamo Colleges, Howard Payne University, and Texas State Technical College spoke with students about local higher education and technical training options.
CareerQuest is part of the Chamber’s broader effort to strengthen the connection between education and the local workforce. “Our goal is to build awareness early,” Crowley added. “When students can see the possibilities in front of them, they’re more likely to find a path that inspires them, and that benefits our entire community in the long run.”
The Chamber plans to continue expanding Youth CareerQuest each year, giving more students and employers a chance to engage in meaningful career exploration.