News - Explore Future Careers at Jackson Area Career Center Open House

SUMMIT TWP., MI – Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery at the Jackson Area Career Center's annual open house, set for Thursday, February 26, from 4 to 7 p.m. This engaging event is intended for students from eighth to 11th grade, along with their families, providing a firsthand glimpse into nearly two dozen distinct career and technical education programs. Located at 6800 Browns Lake Road in Summit Township, the Career Center invites inquisitive minds eager to explore fields ranging from engineering and robotics to health care, skilled trades, and public safety. This open house offers a unique chance to tour state-of-the-art classrooms and labs, interact with knowledgeable instructors, and see students mastering high-demand skills through hands-on experiences. Participants will observe how students use industry-grade equipment, earn industry-recognized certifications, and collaborate on real-world projects. These programs are about more than just education; they offer valuable work-based learning opportunities through partnerships with local employers. Students can also earn articulated college credits, giving them a head start on their post-secondary education journeys. Principal Dan Draper stresses the importance of this event: 'Our annual open house is the best way for families to truly understand what the Career Center offers. Students are building technical skills, earning credentials, developing leadership abilities, and gaining confidence, which prepares them for both college and the workforce. We encourage any student even considering enrollment to come explore.' High school counselors from local districts will be present to assist incoming juniors and seniors with enrollment and scheduling inquiries. This event is crucial for sophomores planning for their junior year, as touring a program is a prerequisite for enrollment, and many programs have limited capacity. In addition to the high school program offerings, the open house will feature adult enrichment programs, providing training opportunities for young adults and adults seeking new skills or career changes. For further information, visit www.jacc-mi.net or the Jackson Area Career Center's Facebook page, where you can stay updated on this exciting event and more.