Pitt Community College (PCC) is set to host a career information fair on October 22, 2023, aimed at high school students and community members interested in health care professions. This event, organized by the PCC Health Sciences Division, will allow attendees to explore various health care programs and gain insights into the collaborative work of health care professionals.
The fair will feature hands-on simulations that showcase PCC’s health sciences facilities, demonstrating the skills necessary for providing quality patient care. Sponsorship comes from notable organizations including ECU Health, Physicians East, and Eastern Radiology. According to Kamilah Williams, dean of PCC’s Health Sciences Division, this initiative provides students with an early glimpse into health care careers, potentially igniting their aspirations and enhancing the local workforce.
Event Details and Opportunities for Attendees
This marks the fourth consecutive year that PCC has hosted this fair, which highlights the institution’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in health care. Tami Flynn, co-chair of the PCC Health Sciences Career Fair, emphasized the unique opportunity for high school students to explore a wide range of health care professions and witness teamwork in action among various health care roles.
The event will be held in the William E. Fulford and Herman Simon buildings on PCC’s main campus. Public and private high school students will have reserved morning sessions, while homeschool students and community members can attend throughout the day. A special two-hour window from 17:00 to 19:00 will cater specifically to homeschool students.
Kendall Commodore, fellow co-chair, highlighted the growing need for health care professionals due to an aging population and a decline in individuals entering medical careers. “The PCC Health Sciences Career Fair is about showcasing the many career paths available at the college,” Commodore stated. He reflected on his own journey, having started with an associate degree from PCC, and encouraged others to explore similar opportunities.
Attendees will have access to representatives from each of PCC’s 23 health sciences programs, who will discuss curricula, career options, and special admission requirements. Additionally, participants can engage in hands-on activities, apply for admission to PCC, and learn about various student support services, including financial aid and counseling. The fair is free to attend, with no pre-registration required, and parking will be available at no cost.
Related Workforce Development Fair Scheduled
In a related initiative, the Better Skills, Better Jobs Fair will take place on Thursday at the Greenville Convention Center. This event aims to connect adult job seekers and high school students with over 100 businesses and industries across eastern North Carolina. Participants will learn about workforce development needs and training options available in the region.
The morning session will be reserved for public and private high school students, who will also hear about programs like Career & College Promise and the PCC-Pitt County Schools Technical Academy. The afternoon segment between 14:00 and 17:30 will focus on adult job seekers, offering opportunities to discuss employment and training options with various organizations, including Greenville Utilities and ECU Health.
Job seekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as some companies will conduct on-site interviews during the fair.
In addition to these initiatives, PCC’s Horticulture/Turfgrass Technology students recently showcased their skills at the Pitt County Fair. According to Jerry Pittman, the Horticulture Curriculum Coordinator, students participated in a collaborative community project involving landscape design and installation, applying classroom knowledge in a real-world context. This experience not only honed their technical skills but also fostered teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
Such community engagement highlights the vital role educational programs play in enriching local areas while providing students with practical experience. As these students advance in their studies, they contribute to the overall vitality and appeal of Pitt County, promoting a greener and more inviting environment for all.
