Vienna High School students get hands-on look at skilled trade careers
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
VIENNA, Ill., (KBSI) — Vienna High School students recently attended the 2026 Southern Illinois Construction Expo, where they got a firsthand look at careers in construction and the skilled trades.
The expo brought together high school students and professionals from several construction-related fields. Students spoke with workers and learned about the skills, training and career paths available within the industry.
Representatives from electrical, plumbing, carpentry, operating engineering, masonry, roofing, ironwork, sheet metal and other trades participated in the event.
The expo also introduced students to apprenticeships and other hands-on training opportunities, including programs that allow participants to earn money while learning a trade.
“One of the best parts of taking students to an event like this is watching them find something that catches their interest,” Vienna High School industrial arts instructor Wade Stewart said. “They get to see the different trades up close, talk with people who do this work every day and ask questions that they might not think to ask in a classroom.”
Vienna School District Superintendent Joshua Stafford said exposing students to different careers can help them begin planning for life after high school.
“Seeing careers firsthand and thinking about what their path might look like after high school in a successful trade career help students make plans and be ready for their future,” Stafford said.
The district said the experience is part of its Career Connected, Life Ready initiative, which focuses on preparing students for careers and other opportunities after graduation.
