Eighth-Grade Girls Explore Careers During Women in Manufacturing Day

Selected eighth-grade girls from Fort Smith Public Schools recently participated in Women in Manufacturing Day, an event designed to introduce students to career opportunities in advanced manufacturing. Students were chosen based on their YouScience Aptitude assessment results, highlighting their interest or potential in the field.

Participants were transported to the Peak Innovation Center where they explored careers and educational pathways tailored to their individual assessment results. The day’s agenda included a guided tour of Peak’s state-of-the-art facilities, a panel discussion featuring professional women in manufacturing, lunch, and a visit to a local manufacturing facility.

A new addition to this year’s event was a hands-on take-home project completed in the Advanced Manufacturing labs. This practical experience allowed students to apply their skills and deepen their understanding of the field.

Aaliyah Pike, an eighth-grader from Kimmons Middle School, expressed her excitement about Women in Manufacturing Day, saying, “Follow your dreams no matter what other people think. It was an honor to be chosen to participate. I was nervous about being in manufacturing because you usually see males in it, but when I came here and saw all the females in manufacturing, it made me feel better about it and excited about my future.”

The event underscores Fort Smith Public Schools’ commitment to equipping students with real-world experiences that inspire career exploration and personal growth.