Fifth grade students at Meyersdale Area Elementary School (MAES) embarked on an adventure on March 8 that took them down numerous career paths and two destinations. The annual SCTC/Workplace Tour, sponsored by Somerset County Technology Center (SCTC) and Conemaugh Health System, is designed to introduce students to the wealth of educational and career opportunities that are available in Somerset County.
Students began their day with a visit to SCTC where they enjoyed presentations on the following programs: Collision Repair and Refinishing, Automotive Technology, Carpentry, Computer Networking, Cosmetology, Construction, Culinary Arts, Dental Assisting, Teacher Pre/Early Childhood Education, Electrical Occupations, Forestry, Service Occupations, Health Occupations, Machine Technology, Masonry. Pre-Engineering, Drafting and Design and Welding Technology. Students met with instructors and learned about the program from students enrolled in the various programs. In many cases, students were given a chance to participate in hands-on activities in the various departments.
In the afternoon, students traveled to Meyersdale Medical Center, where they met with several physicians and staff members in the following departments: laboratory, operating room, emergency room, physical and occupational therapy and visited a regular patient's room. While at Meyersdale Medical Center, students were able to “experiment” with pieces of equipment and tools used each day to help diagnose and treat patients.
According to Mrs. Joey Emerick, MAES School Counselor, fifth graders have been participating in this tour for many years. She said students were impressed by the many options available at SCTC and thrilled with the hands-on activities they enjoyed at the medical center and at SCTC.
“Fifth grade is a good time for our students to begin considering their future plans in terms of classes to take and curriculum paths to consider as they prepare for middle school and eventually high school,” Emerick said. “We hope this tour provides ideas and guidance for the many educational and career paths available right here in Somerset County."
