The recent Career and Trades Panel hosted by Bloomfield High School’s School-to-Career Office was a remarkable event, bringing together four distinguished trades professionals with a combined 30+ years of experience and success. This vital panel provided high schoolers with firsthand insights into the trades industry, leaving many feeling empowered and equipped to explore the numerous career opportunities available in this field.
The panelists shared their personal journeys, showcasing how their paths to success were shaped by perseverance, skill, and a commitment to community and workforce development. Students engaged with panelists through thoughtful questions and networking, gaining invaluable resources, program information, and even job connections.
Key Highlights of the Event:
• Students learned how each panelist plays a vital role in education, business, community development, and workforce advancement.
• Panelists shared valuable insights on career trends, salary expectations, and the variety of opportunities in trade fields.
• Practical tips and personal stories highlighted the importance of being prepared both professionally and personally when pursuing careers in trades.
Panelists included:
1 Kenneth Wallach – Director of Facilities for Bloomfield Public Schools, whose extensive experience in education and trades provided students with a deep understanding of the field.
2 Michael Oliver – Bloomfield native and Town Council member, working to bridge gaps in trade programming, particularly carpentry, to benefit local students.
3 Henry Smith III and Lawrence Jay McLaurin – Owners of FAD Mechanical and recipients of the Small Business Association of Connecticut’s Minority-Owned Small Business of the Year Award for both Connecticut and New England. They shared their expertise in various trades, business ownership, and community impact.
Through this panel, students gained access to resources and advice that clarified their options and inspired them to explore trades as a viable and lucrative career path. They left with a sense of empowerment and readiness to take their next steps.
The School-to-Career Office is committed to fostering opportunities like this, helping students see themselves in the successes of professionals from their own community. By providing events like the Career and Trades Panel, the office aims to empower, equip, and inspire the next generation of leaders in the trades.