Outstandingly, almost all the career presenters at this year’s Finley Career and College Fair were past River View High School graduates or spouses of RVHS graduates! What a great way to encourage students and show them they can do it, too! RVHS alums have gone on to various careers, many of which students wouldn’t necessarily consider. The variety of represented sectors was truly impressive and are listed below.
Many presenters shared the challenges and rewards of working in their sectors. For example, the nurses stressed the difficulty and competitiveness of their training along with how rewarding their work is. In other sectors, the challenge of getting into the job paid off later with high compensation. Some sectors, including working for the Fire Department have arrangements where they specifically look for young graduates with the right attitude and work ethic. These organizations then train the chosen candidates into their positions while paying for their education.
Other presenters highlighted how their careers offered them opportunities to give back to the community or do work that directly benefitted the community. The sports journalist discussed the importance of the community knowing what is happening in local sports. The Vice President & Market Leader in investment banking clearly not only loved her job, but used her advancement to a managerial position to advocate for women in investment, including actively hiring more women into the financial sector. Some sectors, such as Parks and Public Facilities, Public Works, and Energy Services from the City of Richland, reminded students of the work it takes to build, maintain, and provide many of the amenities we take for granted, such as well-kept parks, clean water, and electricity.
Career areas in Science and Engineering that are less understood or associated with science and engineering were also represented. The Research Development presenter shared about science’s impact on modernizing agricultural practices. She also shared about advancements in agriculture due to engineering and new technology such as AI. The industrial hygienist clarified her work as a role that combines the thinking of a scientist with a concern for health and safety to make sure workers aren’t being sickened on the job.
Despite the variety of career options, there were common themes. These were the importance of a good work ethic and drive, treating everyone you meet kindly, and being careful of your present conduct in life and on social media. Several graduates mentioned how grateful they were they persisted and stayed in school. They realized they needed to take ownership of their lives and choices and stayed in school with grit and determination. Some took advantage of options aligned with their learning style, such as the Tri-Tech Skills Center. Others highlighted that if you make mistakes but are honest and take responsibility, there are ways back into your career of choice.
Over the lunch break, the university, college, technical school, and National Guard representatives also had great advice. The Perry Technical Institute rep pointed out that if students loved Tri-Tech and wanted more time in the lab or the shop, they would love their programs. The Washington State University representatives wanted students to understand Higher Education is within reach even for first-generation students. They also wanted students to know there are many campuses and options for students to “find their fit.” Columbia Basin College is a recognized Hispanic-serving Institution and offers affordable tuition, small class sizes, unique CTE opportunities, and Bachelor's degrees, all locally. The representative for the National Guard wanted students to know there is an opportunity for them to be a part of something bigger than themselves. While serving, they earn money and can earn college credits, all while pursuing various career paths.
It was evident students were inspired by the pride the Career and College Fair presenters took in their jobs and giving back to the community. While some students felt they already had clear destinations, they found exposure to other career paths helpful. Students also agreed that it was particularly impactful to hear advice and guidance from people in the industry.
To see more pictures from the day, visit the Finley Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/FinleySchools.
Represented sectors included:
Banking and Investment
Vice President & Market Leader, Merrill Lynch, A Bank of America Company
Business and Entrepreneurship
Ag Farming
Photography, A la Mode
City Government and Services, City of Richland
Energy Services, Energy Efficiency Coordinator
Parks and Public Facilities, Project Manager, Facilities Supervisor
Public Works, Water Utilities
Firefighting and EMS
Benton County Fire District Station 120
Assistant Fire Marshal, City of Richland
911 Dispatchers
Health and Social Services
Registered nurse, school nurse
Registered nurse, home health nurse
Social Work
Journalism
Eastern Oregonian Sports Journalist
Law Enforcement and Law
FBI
Benton County Sheriffs
Lawyer
Real Estate
21st Century Realtor
Retail Industry
Management, Walmart
Science and Engineering
Industrial Hygienist (safety scientist), PNNL
Research Development, Ag science/engineering
Teaching and Coaching
Teacher
Paraeducator
Coach
Technical trades: Managers, workers, and their respective unions:
Assistant Business Manager, Plumbers and
Steamfitters Local Union 598
Career in Asphalt, CRH America Materials Inc.
Construction Manager, GTN Pipeline West
Lineworkers, City of Richland
Sheet Metal Workers, Local 55 Sheet Metal