Manning High School students had the opportunity to explore a variety of career and educational pathways at the school’s annual Career Day, held on Feb. 21. Organized by Career Specialist Travis Baker, the event brought together representatives from colleges, businesses, and military branches to provide students with insight into potential futures beyond high school.
“This was my first year planning the event, and my goal was to branch out to as many schools and businesses outside of Manning as possible,” Baker said. “I really wanted to show the kids that there’s more than just Manning, South Carolina.”
That outreach was reflected in the lineup of participants, which included colleges such as Coastal Carolina University, UNC Pembroke, and USC Sumter. Manning High students also engaged with representatives from businesses and organizations including HopeHealth, McLeod Health Clarendon, Bank of Clarendon, Clarendon County Fire Rescue, and the U.S. Army.
According to Baker, Career Day is designed to help students at all grade levels explore their interests and begin making decisions about their future.
“For seniors, maybe it’s an opportunity to commit to a school or find a trade that interests them,” Baker said. “For underclassmen, it gives them a better idea of potential career paths.”
Attendees were able to interact with representatives from industries ranging from real estate and cosmetology to insurance and banking. Military recruiters from the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force were also on hand to discuss career opportunities in service.
Planning the event required months of outreach to businesses, schools, and community organizations. Baker noted that he attended other career fairs and professional events to establish relationships with recruiters and invite them to Manning High School.
Looking ahead to next year, Baker hopes to expand the event further by bringing in representatives from manufacturing industries such as Boeing, Mercedes, and Volvo.
“The challenge this year was finding representatives from those companies,” he said. “That’s something I’d love to add in the future.”
Career Day is an annual event at Manning High School, open to all students from freshmen to seniors. Baker, a 2007 graduate of Manning High, played football at Wingate University before earning his master’s degree from Duval University. Now serving as the school’s Career Specialist, he helps students navigate career decisions, internships, and post-graduation opportunities.
For those who attended Career Day, the event offered valuable exposure to career paths they might not have previously considered. The enthusiasm even extended beyond career discussions as students were particularly excited about a surprise giveaway of Clarendon-themed board games, which quickly became a hot commodity among attendees.
Manning High School will continue its efforts to connect students with meaningful career and educational opportunities, ensuring they are well-equipped for the future.
