2017 - THE 1ST SOTCE

The History of the Southern Oregon Trade Careers Expo

In September 2017, our history began with a remarkable initiative led by a group of ambitious employers, sponsors, apprenticeship programs, and organizers in our region. They created an unparalleled focus on trades careers, unlike anything seen before! The excitement was palpable as students from Douglas, Jackson, and Josephine Counties had the unique opportunity to explore various trades-related careers firsthand.

Indoors, booths were bustling with simulations, building stations, and experts in recruitment and career planning. Outdoors, the atmosphere was vibrant with the sounds of heavy equipment, semis, lift trucks, power tools, and military exercises. Company employees generously demonstrated their jobs and candidly shared their experiences.

In total, 66 exhibitors captivated 771 high school students from the three counties. These students discovered promising careers that offered living wages, explored their interests in trades-related fields, and actively participated in a multitude of thrilling activities. Later in the afternoon, veterans, serving military personnel, spouses, and referrals from WorkSource and DHS joined the event. They had the chance to interact directly with employers, discuss job openings, review their resumes, and gain insights into beginning their preferred careers.

The 2017 SOTCE received an overwhelmingly positive response and support from both attendees and exhibitors. Stories about the lasting impact of our events on students and employers continue to reach us, motivating us to pursue our mission of #empowerthepossible.

If you're curious, you can find videos, pictures, and testimonials from past events under the Past Events tab. And now, we cordially invite you to join us as an attendee, exhibitor, or sponsor on September 26, 2023, for the 4th Biennial Southern Oregon Trade Careers EXPO! Let's make this event even more memorable and impactful together. 

See the Action!

Exhibitors Created Amazing Engagements!

All images by Visual Images - Steve Johnson Photography: http://www.visualimagesgallery.com/

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