This groundbreaking event focused exclusively on exploring careers in natural resources, connecting 566 eighth graders from 15 schools across the region — from Tawas to Wolverine to Fairview — with 27 exhibitors.

The Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative, in partnership with the Northeast Michigan Council of Governments, the MiSTEM Network, and the MiWorks Northeast Consortium, partnered to host the event.

While there are numerous career opportunities in natural resources, understanding these jobs can often be challenging. One of the goals of the EcoCareers Expo was to provide students with engaging, hands-on experiences at a variety of interactive booths where they could learn about the diverse range of careers available within their communities and across the state. Through direct interaction with professionals and organizations that work in the natural resources sector, students had the unique opportunity to gain insight into potential career paths and begin planning their high school curriculum with future career goals in mind.

“A big goal of this event was to show these young people the awesome careers available in their communities right now,” said Meag Schwartz, NEMIGLSI network coordinator. “Youth don’t have to move away to find a fulfilling opportunity if natural resources are their passion.”

Courtesy Photo Eighth-grade students interact with one of the exhibitors on Oct. 22 at the first-ever EcoCareers Expo held at the APlex in Alpena.

To enhance their learning experience, students received bingo sheets to fill out by asking questions at each booth, such as, “When did you decide to pursue a career in this field?” and “What skills and education are required for your job?”

This first-of-its-kind event aims to become an annual fixture in the community, fostering greater interest in environmental careers and supporting the growth of sustainable career opportunities for future generations.

Courtesy Photo Eighth-grade students interact with one of the exhibitors on Oct. 22 at the first-ever EcoCareers Expo held at the APlex in Alpena.