Lenoir County Public Schools Careers on Wheels event: Photo: Danny Perez/Neuse News.

Over 600 fourth-grade students from Lenoir County Public Schools gathered at the Lenoir County Fairgrounds on Thursday for the annual Careers on Wheels event. More than 30 businesses and organizations participated, offering students a firsthand look at career opportunities available in the community.

The event, organized by the district's elementary counselors, provided a hands-on approach to career exploration. “This is an effort to educate and inspire students about different job opportunities they may not have thought of before,” said Stacy Cauley, Director of Elementary Education. “It’s a unique way for them to meet professionals and see the tools and vehicles used in various careers.”

Participants included local first responders, utility companies, agricultural organizations, and other industries. One highlight was the North Carolina Forest Service Aviation Unit, which showcased a firefighting helicopter. Shay Smith, a helicopter pilot with the unit, described the importance of events like this for children.

“I think it’s really neat to expose children to this,” Smith said. “As a young child, I never got to see anything like this up close. We want to show kids that they can pursue a career like this and spread the message of safety and forest fire prevention.”

Students had the chance to engage directly with the professionals, ask questions, and interact with the equipment. Many were fascinated by the helicopter, with Smith noting, “Most of them have been asking for a ride this morning, but unfortunately we can’t take them up.”

For the students, the day connected classroom lessons to real-world applications. “Our counselors teach students about different careers in the classroom,” Cauley said. “This event translates that knowledge into a tangible experience where they can see careers in action and speak directly with professionals.”

Organizers hope the event inspires students to consider future career paths and potentially stay in the community after completing their education. “We want our students to remain in Lenoir County, contribute to the community, and build careers here,” Cauley added.

Reflecting on the day, Smith shared, “To me, this is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. When you save a house or a business, it’s hard to top that feeling. Events like this show kids they can have a meaningful career too.”