Stagg High School students had a chance to explore careers in the trade industry on Tuesday during a Vocational Fair at the school’s campus, 8015 W. 111th St., aimed at broadening their exposure to post-secondary options.
“Every student has an individual path and goal for their future, and each should have the opportunity to learn more about their desired path,” College and Career Coordinator Rich Kowalczyk said. “It’s important for students to understand that their career path may differ from their peers, family, or teachers, and that there are many options available after high school.”
Trade and union jobs require specialized skills and training, often through vocational schools and apprenticeships. Careers like electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and painters involve years of preparation; electricians, for example, train with certified professionals for up to five years while earning wages before becoming licensed.
In 2023, union membership among wage and salary workers in the U.S. was 10%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Recently, student interest in trade careers has grown at Stagg.
“I believe the interest in the trades is on an upswing,” Kowalczyk said. “Four-year college isn’t an option for all students, and we want to expose these students to viable career paths that don’t require a college degree. These careers are well-established and offer satisfaction without the need for a four-year degree.”
In Illinois, trades support approximately 1,632,000 jobs, accounting for 20.5% of all state employment, according to the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition.
The fair featured over 30 representatives from various trades, schools, and workforce programs, including the Carpenters Union, Electrical Union, Sprinkler Fitters Union, Sheet Metal Union, Painters Union, and Moraine Valley Career and Certification Programs. Professionals from industries such as bricklaying, firefighting, carpentry, esthetics, and real estate also participated.
“They provided much more opportunities than I had imagined,” senior Ali Dasan, 18, of Hickory Hills, said. “I learned that some of the career options like carpenters and electricians that provide dozens of very useful benefits for your career while you’re active and for after you retire.”
During the event, professionals discussed their career paths with students and outlined training requirements.
“This fair broke down barriers, providing students with firsthand knowledge about entering trades or other non-traditional post-high school careers,” Kowalczyk said. “The interaction between representatives and students was invaluable. Our students had great questions, and the representatives provided both personal insights and useful information.”
Ewelina Sikon, a 17-year old senior from Hickory Hills appreciated the wide range of career paths represented at the gathering.
“I had a fun and productive time learning about cosmetology and a few health and science programs,” she said.
The organizers of Stagg High School’s Vocational Fair hoped it would inspire students to explore paths aligned with their strengths and interests.
“It’s all about showing them the options and connecting them with mentors who can help them succeed,” Kowalczyk said. “Whether students pursue college or a trade, we want them to feel prepared and confident about their future.”