The fair’s goal is simple and ambitious, to use interactive exhibits and live demonstrations to inspire students to explore career paths
By Heather Thomas, Upper Cumberland Business Journal
The Highlands Economic Partnership (HEP) hosted its third annual 8th Grade Career Fair this week at the Clyde Hyder-Tommy Burks Agricultural Pavilion, giving thousands of Upper Cumberland students a hands-on look at in-demand careers across seven industry clusters.
The event featured 56 interactive booth experiences and welcomed 8th graders from 14 county school systems, along with private-school and homeschool students.
The fair’s goal is simple and ambitious, to use interactive exhibits and live demonstrations to inspire students to explore career paths, connect classroom learning to real jobs and strengthen the region’s long-term talent pipeline so that we have a strong workforce in the future.
“Our goal is to provide a platform of learning for all students across the Upper Cumberland with the eighth-grade career fair. This is one of our flagship events that we look forward to each year,” said Adam Poe, Vice President, Highlands Economic Partnership. “The backbone of this event are our industry partners who dedicate three full days to interacting with thousands of students. The excitement and energy are so encouraging—and something we aim to amplify each year. I couldn’t be more grateful for the business and education partners we have in this region.”
Slither – No one said snake handling was part of the fair.
Hands-on pathways: health, skilled trades, agriculture and more
Students rotated through demonstrations that let them try real-world tasks—from patient care simulations to tool handling and equipment demos—while talking directly with employers, educators, and current students.
- Emergency & Health Sciences (Vol State):
“I’m enjoying the hands-on skills and clinical training in the ER and with the county’s EMS,” said Victoria Hayes, a paramedic student at Volunteer State Community College.
“We’re glad to bring career training to students at all stages of their professional lives,” added Shaun Hale, Vol State’s Coordinator of Non-Credit Programs for EMT Basic and Advanced EMT.
Gather – Students from 14 counties visited the career fair
- Skilled Trades (TCAT Upper Cumberland):
“Our TCAT campuses love career fairs where we can interact with students. They get to experience skilled-trade opportunities and see how vital these careers are to our communities. Our students are here to answer questions and demonstrate the skills they’re learning—it’s inspiring to watch them motivate the next generation.” explained Nicole Britt, TCAT Upper Cumberland Dual Enrollment Coordinator.
- Agriculture & Horticulture (Tennessee Nursery & Landscape Association):
“In Warren County there are over 300 nurseries growing a wide variety of trees, shrubs, seedlings and plants,” said Danae Bouldin, Executive Director of the Tennessee Nursery & Landscape Association, who spoke about the sector’s workforce impact. “Nursery and landscaping account for over $1 billion in economic activity and employ about 20,000 statewide. We’re third behind forestry and cattle in bringing money into the state.”
Bouldin noted the range of horticultural careers available—growers, equipment dealers, truck brokers, sales and suppliers of containers, pesticides, soil, mulch and fertilizers.
Presence – Vol State’s Department of Health Science shared wisdom.
Community effort, regional payoff
HEP credited school districts, businesses, postsecondary partners, and volunteers for making the three-day event possible. The shared aim: help students discover interests early, meet real professionals, and see clear pathways to good local careers—whether through college, certificates, apprenticeships or direct-to-work options.
About Highlands Economic Partnership
The Highlands Economic Partnership convenes business, education, and government to grow jobs and talent across the Upper Cumberland. The 8th Grade Career Fair is a flagship HEP initiative connecting classroom learning to high-demand careers through hands-on experiences.
UCBJ photos.
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