On Thursday, November 7, 2024, students from North County Independent Study (NCIS) attended the "Trades Day" event at Palomar College, led by staff members Tom Healy and Flor Delgado. The event provided students with hands-on exposure to various skilled trades and potential career paths.
To travel to the event, the students took advantage of public transportation on the North County Sprinter which dropped them off near the front of the Palomar College campus. From there, they enjoyed a healthy walk to the back of the college grounds, where the Trades Day activities were taking place. This walk allowed the students to experience the campus environment and get some light exercise before diving into the day's activities.
Throughout the day, students participated in interactive demonstrations and activities across different trade disciplines. They gained practical experience in essential skills including hammering, cement mixing, roofing, electrical work, plumbing, and welding. Industry professionals and training program representatives guided students through each activity, ensuring both engagement and safety.
The event went beyond just practical demonstrations, as students learned about apprenticeship programs and career opportunities available after high school. Various industry partners shared insights about their trades and the paths to entering these professions. Students showed great enthusiasm while learning new skills and discovering career options they might not have previously considered.
This field trip successfully demonstrated the value of skilled trades and technical education, providing NCIS students with firsthand experience and valuable information about diverse career pathways available to them after graduation.
