Recently, more than 20 juniors and seniors from Ste. Genevieve High School attended the Build My Future showcase in Cape Girardeau. The group joined students and community members from across the region for a day of hands-on career exploration in the skilled trades, networking with potential future employers.
Launched in 2022, Build My Future is a free interactive event designed to introduce students to the wide range of high-demand, high-wage opportunities available in construction and related industries. The event features dozens of booths and learning labs hosted by professionals in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, drywall, bricklaying, welding, heavy equipment operation and more.
Participants rotate through a variety of stations offering everything from virtual reality simulations to live demonstrations—allowing students to test tools, ask questions, and gain insight into the training and certifications required for different trades. Industry representatives were also on hand to discuss job outlooks, workplace environments and pathways into these careers.
This immersive experience gives students a real-world glimpse into career fields that are critical to the region’s infrastructure and economic growth.
We’re grateful to our SGHS educators for organizing this experience and helping students explore meaningful career pathways for their future!