Hear FWISD students talk about their hands-on experience in this video

Fort Worth ISD sixth and seventh grade students participating in the District’s Vital Link Middle School Summer Career Exploration Program recently received an eye-opening, hands-on work experience.

During the weeklong program, FWISD’s Career and Technical education department students visited participating businesses to learn about essential careers, worked alongside professionals on the job, and learned how school achievement is linked to workplace success.

“The program is educational and key to opening many doors for me to different careers,” explains Vital Link student Rhianna Orozco in this FWISD-produced video.

All students were assigned mentors and were accompanied by FWISD teachers who supervised their work at the business site. This summer, they visited various departments at the City of Fort Worth and Benbrook. They also collaborated with TCC departments, including Library, Aviation, Horticulture, and Fire Training. Some students tried on firefighting gear as they learned about the many facets of the profession. Others toured a power plant and discovered the wonder and challenges of generating electricity. Linebarger Law Firm facilitated visits with local dignitaries, including Mayor Mattie Parker.

The FWISD appreciates the support of this year’s participating business partners:

• Balfour Beatty
• City of Benbrook
• City of Fort Worth
• Constellation Power
• Linebarger Law Firm
• Tarrant County College NW
• Tarrant County College South

For more information about the Vital Link Middle School Summer Career Exploration Program, email vitallink@fwisd.org, call 817-814-1510, or visit www.fwisd.org/innovation.