Students will explore the fair between 10:15-2:30

Registration submissions are DUE on or before Friday, September 12th, 2025

A BOX LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED!

At Big Lake Schools, we are committed to preparing every student for life after high school. We recognize that there isn’t just one path to success—there are many. That’s why we believe it’s essential to educate students on all of them. It all begins with our Youth Apprenticeship and Career Fair. This event is a powerful opportunity to provide EXPOSURE to the wide range of career options available in today’s workforce.

We invite businesses to join us and help students better understand the opportunities that exist beyond the classroom. What kind of work happens within your company? What careers are available? What are the benefits? And what paths lead there? Bring signage, photo displays, brochures, and yes—promo items are a hit (students love a good freebie!). We can also provide power if you plan to bring a monitor or interactive tech. Some booths go even further with hands-on activities—students might get to wire a switch, swing a hammer, run a simulator, or even program a robot.

But the fair is just the beginning. After EXPOSURE comes EXPLORATION. The connections made at this event often lead to follow-up opportunities—businesses returning to speak with targeted student groups or welcoming students on site for facility tours. Then, for some students, the capstone: EXPERIENCE. Through our work-based learning program, upperclassmen may have an opportunity to work on-the-job or even become a Youth Apprentice, working with businesses while earning high school credit. These experiences are coordinated in partnership with Big Lake High School’s work-based learning team, allowing students to leave school early to begin their workday, gaining industry-relevant skills in a real-world setting.

That’s our mission: to ensure every student is career-ready through the 3 E’s—EXPOSURE, EXPLORATION, and EXPERIENCE. And it all starts at the Youth Apprenticeship and Career Fair.

If you have any questions or want to talk more, I’d love to connect.

My direct line is (763) 262-5117.

Wade Olson

Big Lake High School

Work-Based Learning Coordinator