SW New Mexico News

Las Cruces Public Schools recently held its third annual Plan My Future career expo, drawing over 1,600 students from local schools including Las Cruces Public Schools, Hatch Valley Middle and High School, Las Montañas Charter High School, and New America School. The event took place on February 27 in the west parking lot at the Field of Dreams.

Organized by the LCPS Career and Technical Education team, the expo aimed to engage middle and high school students in exploring various career paths beyond high school. Sharon Johnson, an Educational Assistant at Rio Grande Preparatory Institute, highlighted the importance of such events. “Being able to go out into the community, have an out-of-classroom field experience, engage in hands-on learning, and talk to people about their post-graduation plans (whether they know what they want to do or not) is invaluable in so many ways. Additionally, offering them ideas and guidance makes the experience even more impactful."

Kathleen Gardner, a career readiness and work-based learning teacher with LCPS who organized the event, noted that its success relies heavily on businesses and organizations collaborating to educate students about post-secondary career options.

Students like Valeria Martinez, an 11th grader at Centennial High School interested in radiology, found value in attending. She said, “I think it’s cool within the medical field, and there are different types of radiology, like sonography and X-rays. It’s really cool that Plan My Future can help you find what you want to do in the future.”

The event showcased a range of careers available within the community such as building trades, construction, media, cosmetology, Doña Ana County Fire and Emergency Services. Local law enforcement agencies provided live demonstrations alongside other vocational industries. Institutions like New Mexico State University and DACC participated along with military branches and other post-secondary organizations.