Another Career Exploration Event: Inspiring the Future
On May 8th, Van Buren Middle School buzzed with excitement and curiosity as 8th grade students participated in a dynamic Career Exploration Event, proudly supported by the ABQ Career Connect. The event brought together local professionals, educators, and community partners to help students envision their future paths and discover the many possibilities that await them.
From hands-on demonstrations to engaging Q&A sessions, students had the opportunity to interact with representatives from a wide range of industries—including healthcare, technology, skilled trades, public service, and the arts. Each presenter shared not only what they do, but how they got there, offering personal stories and practical advice that made career planning feel both real and achievable.
ABQ Career Connect played a key role in organizing and facilitating the event, ensuring that students also gained valuable insight into the interview process—learning how to carry themselves professionally, answer questions with clarity and confidence, and leave a lasting, positive impression on potential employers.
The goal was simple but powerful: to spark inspiration and help students begin thinking about their futures with confidence and excitement.
Teachers and staff at Van Buren Middle School praised the event for its impact. “It was amazing to see our students so engaged and asking thoughtful questions,” said one educator. “Events like this help them connect what they’re learning in school to real-world opportunities.”
As part of ABQ Career Connect’s ongoing mission to support youth career readiness in Albuquerque, this event marked another step toward building a stronger, more informed, and empowered future workforce.We’re grateful to all the volunteers, presenters, and school staff who made this day possible—and most of all, to the students who showed up with curiosity and enthusiasm.
The future is bright, and it starts with moments like these.
Thanks to our partners who provided their employees with the opportunity to participate:
- Sandia National Labs
- Continental Machining Company
- UNM
- Mtucci’s
- Albuquerque Police Department
- Growvera
- NM Environment Department
- Albuquerque Little Theater
- Siembra Leadership High School
- Explora/Xtudio
- Space Dynamics Laboratories
- Presbyterian
- Los Alamos National Labs
Thank you to the Abq Career Connect Partnership members:
- Christine Batan, JAGNM
- Mike May, FFE
- Jennifer DeRedin, DWS/NMPED
- Howie Kaibel, M’tucci’s
- Trish Lynn St. John, Sandia National Labs
- Michelle Tregembo, NM DDC
- Melodee Saiz, APS
- Arge Flores, UWNCNM
- Smraa Saidi, CNM
- Martha Castaneda, DVR
- Lora Motley, AHCNM
- Ruth Juarez, UNM Data Governance/UWNCNM
- Yoselin Cordoba, UNM Data Governance/UWNCNM
- Robert Leming, NM Chamber of Commerce
Special Thanks to: Shawanda Bell, DVR; Mandy Wilson, NMJA; Brian Schobel, APS; Andreana Thomas, Siembra Leadership High School; Anita Campbell, AREA; Benton Spradlin, NM Chamber of Commerce; Shiloh L Burton and Naomi J Sandweiss, UNM Project SEARCH.
