Submitted by Kate Long.

“It was fast, informative, and so much fun,” is how Counselor Meagan Gable described ‘Career Day 2022’ at Orcas Island High School held on May 18. During the 35-minute Advisory period, 21 Orcas professionals visited with groups of Orcas High School students to share their career path, discuss their profession, and answer questions. The speakers, grouped by profession, presented in a high school classroom; students selected their room by their area of interest. The goal was to inspire students, explore career pathways, and provide real-world stories from people in our community who are thriving in that industry.

Gable continued, “I love that our community experts are so willing to visit with and offer advice to our students. I cannot thank them enough for their time and willingness to participate.” Michelle Keyes, an advocate for introducing trades pathways to OIHS students, helped to invite speakers and organize this year’s event.

This day was made possible by the Orcas Island Education Foundation and private donors who funded the ‘Futures Lounge’ at the Orcas High School. The themes and presenters for OIHS Career Day 2022 included:

• Accounting/Bookkeeping & Banking: Sada Aschraft and Jamie Cier

• Fire & Sheriff Department: Kim Kimple, Herb Crowe and Jason Gross

• Contractor/Carpenter & Excavation: Lincoln Gable, Tyson Balcomb and Tyler Nigretto

• Solar, Internet & Technology: Chris Wolfe and Bradford Bouchard

• Washington State Ferries & Tourism/ Recreation: Scott Schrader, Jeff Reeves, Sara Lynn and Fiona Stone

• Restaurant & Hospitality: Tera Landman and Sara Farish

• Hair Stylist & Esthetician: Emily Lorsung and Liberté.

• Food & Retail: Lilly Rodgers and Kelsey Hamilton

• Childcare & Youth Development: Amber Paulsen and Emilie Gincig.

Contributed photo