MOBILE, Alabama — More than 1,000 eighth graders from Mobile County Public Schools took part in Day One of the Mobile Launch 8th Grade Career Exploration Event on Tuesday, November 4, at the ABBA Shrine Center.

Mobile Launch, which continues through 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, gives students an early opportunity to begin thinking about their futures and connecting what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world careers available right here in Mobile County.

Students interacted with business and industry partners, explored hands-on exhibits, and learned more about the career academies and pathways offered at each MCPSS high school.

Dr. William White, MCPSS Executive Director of Career Tech Education & Workforce Development, said the event is all about exposure and opportunity. “We wanted to give our students opportunities to come out and see these careers at an early age and see what opportunities they have afforded to them through our different career technical education programs throughout our district, and also see what employers there are,” Dr. White said. “We have our career tech centers here, our signature academies here, as well as industries that are participating in these hands-on activities.”

Interactive exhibits showcased career fields, including healthcare, aviation, engineering, construction, manufacturing, public safety, and information technology. Students were able to meet professionals, ask questions, and try out hands-on demonstrations designed to spark interest in high-demand fields across the region.

Mobile Launch was made possible through the collaboration of MCPSS Career Coaches, counselors, chaperones, bus drivers, and school teams as part of the school system’s mission to create educational, career-focused opportunities for students. MCPSS also extends a special thank-you to the Mobile Chamber and to all of the industry partners for their creativity, energy, and commitment to inspiring the next generation of the Mobile County workforce.