The Bristol Virginia and Bristol Tennessee ONE Bristol Career Exploration Event was recently held in Viking Hall in Bristol, Tennessee. The event was sponsored by the United Way of Bristol, Bristol Tennessee City Schools, Bristol Virginia Public Schools, City of Bristol Tennessee, City of Bristol Virginia, Bristol Tennessee Essential Services, Bristol Virginia Utilities, and Community in Schools Southwest Virginia.

In total, almost 500 students interacted with over 20 businesses representing the sectors of retail service, utilities, manufacturing, public service, healthcare, construction, engineering, information technology, and tourism. Each section worked collectively to share career growth and functions from within their organizations.

Studies have shown that early-on career exposure activities to those wanting access to science, technology, engineering, and math fields are better prepared to navigate the world of modern opportunities. Strongwell has long been a believer in engaging in early learning opportunities to spark interest in STEM. The importance of communities to highlight and invest in these types of career paths are vital to local economies.

In an effort to create a hands-on activity, Strongwell’s fabrication, design, engineering, and marketing teams decided to design and feature a lightweight stepstool. This provided students an outlet to try their hands at assembly, teamwork, and blue print reading. In most instances, the assembly process took less than ten minutes with the aid of two socket wrenches and a few teammates. Students visiting the Strongwell table were amazed by how the simple seven pound step stool was designed to support over 250 lbs., translating into a strength to weight ratio of almost 40 to 1. As an additional educational aid, students were given the opportunity to interact and ask questions about fiberglass raw materials and rovings.

Many thanks to community organizations, schools systems, and businesses for the opportunity to broaden the perspectives of tomorrow’s workforce.