Juniors and seniors from San Joaquin County high schools will learn about construction careers and pathways to building trades apprenticeships at the 18th Annual Construction Trades Career Fair in Stockton on Friday, Sept. 15. Apprenticeships provide students an opportunity to earn money as they learn after high school and are often referred to as “the other four-year degree.”

Representatives from the construction trades will give students an overview of their careers and information on how to enter an apprenticeship program. Students will also participate in a variety of hands-on activities that will allow them to sample the skill sets of each trade.

The fair is organized by the San Joaquin Area Apprenticeships Association in partnership with the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) College and Career Readiness department and the San Joaquin Building Trades Council. Students will learn about careers within 18 construction and apprenticeship programs serving the region. Approximately 800 students from high schools throughout the county will attend the outdoor event, with staggered arrival times beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The Construction Trades Career Fair is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, being hosted at the IBEW/NECA Union Electrical Training Center, 1531 El Pinal Drive, Stockton.

The San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) provides educational leadership, resources, and services to support schools throughout the county. With its programs, innovative staff, and community partnerships, the SJCOE ensures that every student in San Joaquin County has the opportunity of a quality education. For more information, visit www.sjcoe.org.