LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — Students at Solomon Plains Middle School are learning about different career opportunities at the 'Your Economic Success'- or YES! Day event hosted by Junior Achievement of Northeastern Pennsylvania.
"There are about 60 volunteers here today that are bringing hands on learning activities to these students to get them thinking about their futures." said Susan Magnotta, Junior Achievement President.
This particular YES Day focuses on manufacturing jobs thanks to a state grant to help the non-profit inspire younger generations to explore careers in that field.
"Manufacturing as an industry is very important to Pennsylvania. There is a high concentration of it in this area, and there's lots of opportunities." said Gwen Ross, Director of Workforce Development Initiative PA.
The event aims to expose students to career paths that don't require a 4-year degree.
"Children that are going to graduate from high school and they're not sure what they're going to do. So, with or without a college degree these kids can have wonderful jobs that have family sustaining wages." said Magnotta.
Students learned what it would be like to work in a Starbucks warehouse and how to take a product from start to finish.
They had a session on interviewing tips, and how to create a household budget based on the career they chose.
"It was like fun because I can learn like when I grow up maybe I can do that when I grow up." said Keysha De La Cruz.
Stephanie Castellanos learned more about the trade she hopes to work in one day.
"It's exciting because like I was learning about something I really want to be when I'm older. Which was I'm kind of like into cars like a auto technician and stuff." said Castellanos.
Junior Achievement says this early exposure to career opportunities has proven beneficial for students everywhere.
"So, we've seen it for ourselves it is critical that middle school-high school that's when the light bulbs start going off. That's when they need to start thinking about their futures and actually connecting what their learning in school with their future success." said Magnotta.
Junior Achievement of NEPA plans to visit other schools in the county over the next two years to inspire even more students to get involved in manufacturing.