Career Fair at Jemtegaard Middle School Helps Students Prepare for Future

Jemtegaard Middle School (JMS) students were provided the opportunity to explore a variety of possible careers at the JMS Career Fair held on February 26.

“The 29 presenters included many Washougal residents and businesses,” said David Cooke, JMS Principal.  “Each student took part in three half hour presentations.  The students picked two of their choices and we picked the other to expand their horizons.”  Some of the jobs included Secret Service Agent, Chiropractor, Cosmetologist, Pilot, Detective, Nurse, Firefighter, Movie Director, Videographer and Surgical Technician.

The day started with an assembly with guest speaker Jason Scukanec from the ESPN sports radio show, '1080 the Fan.'  Scukanec was a standout football player at Mt. View High School in Vancouver and had a brief career in the National Football League.  He is now a radio broadcaster and discussed the twists and turns in life and stressed the importance of a good education.

Danny Birch, Firefighter with the East County Fire and Rescue and Washougal resident, enjoys the part of his job that brings him into school classrooms. “Some kids are already thinking about becoming a firefighter and it is important to let them know what it takes to enter this career,” he said. “I tell them that it is challenging and knowing what I know now I would have worked harder in school to be prepared.”

“We wanted students to have a chance to see the many possible directions out there for careers so they can begin planning now,” Cooke said.  “We are very grateful to our community that took their valuable time to give students this experience.”