CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Area Technology Academy (CATA) held its innaugural Career Fair on April 30, inviting students, employers and community members to learn about different career options.
Jeff Johnson, assistant principal and work-based learning coordinator at CATA, explained that the event aimed to connect students with potential employers from many fields.
“We wanted to give our seniors, not just here at CATA but throughout Cullman County, an opportunity to meet possible employers and explore different career paths all in one location,” Johnson said.
Over 30 vendors took part, representing fields like healthcare, technical trades, manufacturing and the armed forces. There were also post-secondary options, including Wallace State Community College.
Organizers started planning in the first semester, teaming up with CATA teachers and their contacts to bring in employers. Johnson said they wanted students to see a wide variety of career paths in one place.
Before the event, Johnson and other educators visited seniors at schools across Cullman County to encourage them to attend, especially those still unsure about their plans after graduation. The event was meant to serve students and the community, not to raise money.
“We did it solely to give our kids opportunities and put them in a position where they can have conversations with the right people,” Johnson said.
More than 300 people attended the Career Fair. After the first half, the event opened to the public so community members looking for jobs could join. Johnson said organizers will review feedback and look for ways to make the event better next time. Early talks suggest even more people might take part as teachers and community partners learn more about what the event offers.
“I think this is something we can do every year,” Johnson said.
