Oshkosh Area School District sixth-graders at Merrill and South Park middle schools recently had the opportunity to learn about technical education options available at Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC).  The hands-on learning opportunity was meant to help students start thinking about their career interests and education plans following high school. Students were able to tour numerous FVTC campuses, including the S.J Spanbauer Aviation and Industrial Center, the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center, and the Riverside Campus. During the tours, students heard from industry experts and instructors and learned about a variety of career options and the education requirements and pathways available to them. Students were also able to take part in hands-on activities and explore in-demand careers, including wood manufacturing, electromechanics, aeronautics, robotics, welding, marketing, medical, and more. 

"It's all about helping our students not only see their options but start to plan for their future," said Tom Anfinson, Oshkosh Area School District Instructional Support Teacher. "I think it is extremely beneficial for our sixth-graders to be exposed to post-secondary options early in order to help guide their educational journey. These tours are a great opportunity for students to learn, ask questions, and start thinking about their future."

The Oshkosh Area School District also invited and welcomed Senator Dan Feyen to participate in the tours to see first-hand how the Oshkosh community is working together to support and prepare students. The FVTC tours are one example of how the Oshkosh Area School District is helping students become college, career, and community ready. Schools throughout the District have been hosting education and manufacturing tours and activities for many years. Additional career exploration activities at the middle school level include tours of the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh with seventh-grade students and an interactive career showcase/fair for eighth-graders. The goal of the Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) is to ensure that all students are College, Career and Community Ready (CCCR).  Through CCCR’s three areas of focus: Career Exploration, Financial Literacy and Life and Career Skills, the OASD provides opportunities and experiences to students so that they can make informed decisions regarding their future after graduation. For more information, visit oshkosh.k12.wi.us.