Eagle County Schools created the CareerX program in 2016 based on a simple idea: Provide high school students with opportunities to explore careers. That simple idea has inspired many community organizations to jump into the water with us to give our valley’s youth a vision for their futures like no traditional high school class ever could. While the program helps students develop post-high school plans, it also serves to broaden perspectives about the variety of careers available in the 21st century.
One job shadow day at a large corporation such as Vail Resorts gives kids exposure to careers in marketing, mountain operations, finance, accounting, human resources, hospitality, property management, retail and resource management. Students benefit from visiting job sites and experiencing the climate, culture and everyday operations of different careers. A shadow day serves to build dreams and bust myths about careers they may want to pursue.
Job shadows, internships and employment are all part of the career exploration mix. CareerX coordinates practical, hands-on learning experiences for students at many of our valley’s leading employers. Robust career exploration helps students define career paths and academic goals for the future. Through meaningful internships and jobs appropriate for high school students, we can produce a highly skilled workforce that meets the needs of local businesses that struggle to find qualified employees.