LSSD expands career exploration opportunities for students

Students exploring cloud computing — Students explored cloud computing and participated in hands-on computer science activities.

Students across Lake Stevens School District are gaining valuable real-world experience through an expanding range of Career and Technical Education opportunities designed to connect learning with future careers.Since January, students have participated in a variety of field trips, career tours, guest speaker events, and college visits that introduced them to high-demand industries and postsecondary pathways. These experiences are helping students make informed decisions about their futures while building confidence and career awareness.

Students interested in technology careers visited the AWS Skills Center in downtown Seattle, where they explored cloud computing and participated in hands-on computer science activities. The event also created space for students to connect directly with industry professionals and see themselves represented in tech fields.

For students considering careers in design, a dual-campus visit to DigiPen Institute of Technology and Lake Washington Institute of Technology provided insight into college-level programs and creative career pathways. Similarly, students interested in aerospace careers toured Aviation Technical Services, AMTEC, and the Washington Aerospace Training and Research Center, where they learned about certifications, apprenticeships, and entry points into the industry.

Students posing for a group photo in the foyer at Lake Washington Institute of Technology. — A visit to DigiPen Institute of Technology provided insight into college-level programs and creative career pathways.

A group photo in the foyer at Lake Washington Institute of Technology. — Students posed for a group photo at Lake Washington Institute of Technology.

Students pursuing skilled trades participated in Trade Up Apprenticeship Day at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds. This interactive experience allowed students to engage in hands-on activities across multiple trade areas while connecting with local businesses and apprenticeship programs.

Career exploration also extended to industry-specific events such as the Maritime Career Exploration Day at the Port of Everett, where students learned about careers in global trade, transportation, and maritime industries through a behind-the-scenes tour of the Port and direct employer networking opportunities.

In addition to field experiences, Lake Stevens High School hosted a CTE Career Day on May 1, 2026, reaching over 500 students. The event included both in-person and virtual guest speakers representing a wide range of industries, including business, marketing, finance, culinary arts, public safety, and media. In CTE classrooms throughout the day, students heard how the industry skills they will need for their future are connected to the skills they are learning here in Lake Stevens.

Students wearing hard hats and watching a drilling demonstration. — Trade Up Apprenticeship Day at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds.

At the University of Washington Bothell, students explored a variety of postsecondary options. — Students attended College Planning Day at the University of Washington Bothell.

Students had the opportunity to hear from accomplished professionals such as Terry Thoren, a former producer of the major animated series The Simpsons and Rugrats, and Mark Grant, a CBS TV sports producer with experience working on NFL and NBA broadcasts. Local leaders in public service, including representatives from South Snohomish County Fire and Rescue and the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office, spoke about the importance of academic preparation, strong character, and community impact in their fields. The event also expanded access by inviting students based on their individual career interests, allowing an additional group of students to connect directly with professionals aligned to their goals.

College readiness was another key focus, with students attending College Planning Day at the University of Washington Bothell. This experience connected students with representatives from more than 25 colleges, universities, and training programs across Washington, helping them explore a variety of postsecondary options.

Together, these efforts reflect the district’s commitment to preparing students for life after graduation. By connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences, Lake Stevens School District is ensuring that every student has the opportunity to explore, discover, and pursue a meaningful future.

If you would like to get involved with future career connection events within our school district, we would be honored to have you! Please contact Post-Secondary Planning Specialist, Melissa Dilling to learn more: melissa_dilling@lkstevens.wednet.edu.