TradesNKY expands partnership with Campbell County MS through in-class career exploration

TradesNKY expanded its partnership with Campbell County Middle School in 2023 by bringing its hands-on career exploration curriculum directly into the classroom, providing sixth-grade students with an early introduction to the skilled trades and the careers that help build Northern Kentucky’s communities.

Through the school’s Introduction to Construction Technology elective course, students participated in TradesNKY’s Explorations curriculum, an interactive program designed to expose middle school students to a variety of skilled trades while building confidence through hands-on learning. The partnership represented an important milestone in TradesNKY’s mission to connect education with workforce opportunities by introducing students to career pathways before they begin making decisions about high school and beyond.

The curriculum moved beyond traditional classroom instruction by combining career exploration with project-based learning and direct engagement from local industry professionals. Throughout the school year, students participated in “exploration days,” where experts from construction and related skilled trades visited the classroom to share their experiences, demonstrate industry tools and discuss the skills needed for success in their professions.

Students were encouraged to learn by doing. In addition to exploring career opportunities, they gained hands-on experience using industry tools and equipment while developing foundational skills in safety, measuring, teamwork and problem-solving.

The course introduced students to the many careers that contribute to creating and maintaining the places where people live, learn and work. From construction and carpentry to electrical, plumbing and HVAC professions, students gained a broader understanding of the industries that keep communities growing and functioning.