Students toured Steeda Industries in Valdosta GA.  Upon arrival students were greeted by the Marketing Manager at Steeda.  He explained operations at Steeda, and why they exist.  He shared that he started in an entry level position 20 plus years ago and that he worked hard to climb the ladder of positions at Steeda.  He explained that if you want to succeed you can’t look for instant success but should plan to work hard to reach your goals.  Students were taken on a tour of the operations, where they saw every part being made to make the Mustang a super-fast vehicle.  Students could assist in spray coating one of the parts, and finally a teacher rode in one of the Mustangs.  Students asked questions about employment while in high school and were provided info on Steeda’s student work-study program.

Portal HS participated in a tour of the Bulloch Co Fire Dept and Statesboro EMS.  Students learned about careers in both emergency response in their local area.  Upon arrival at the fire dept students were introduced to the various career positions within the fire dept., which ranged from fire fighters to inspectors, to administrative personnel and the Chief of the Station.  Students learned about each position, their roles, and experience, qualifications, and education required to work in each position.  The staff shared info about both full and part-time positions and pay and benefits.  They encouraged students to apply while in college at GSU, as several students only work the weekend shift as fire fighters and earn pay while in college, and also having the opportunity to read and study as long as the stationed isn’t called out for an emergency.

After leaving the fire station, students walked next door for a tour of the Emergency Medical Services station.  Staff explained the difference in their positions, and how to start as an EMT and work your way up to a Paramedic.  They shared the education and experience necessary for both positions, as well as pay.  Students had an opportunity to sit in the back of an ambulance and see how EMTs operate when they have a patient.  Students were also encouraged by the staff to go to the local technical school to have an opportunity to hear, firsthand, about the educational requirements to become an EMT.