As published in The Journal on February 7, 2024
CHARLES TOWN, WVa. -- The National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) at Washington High School put together the Dream Big Summit, where it invited people in the community to talk about their careers and encourage the students to set their own goals.
The NTHS was started last year as a way to help students on a career pathway. Many students participate in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that focus on preparing young people for a specific trade. Students who qualify for NTHS can apply and participate in monthly meetings to learn more about different career paths, get community service opportunities, and make connections with people in and out of the school.
Heather Fauble, Washington High School’s NTHS advisor, helped the students plan the Dream Big Summit after hearing about all the things they hoped to do. She realized they wouldn’t have enough time to invite and hear from all the different speakers, so she suggested putting together a conference where students could choose different sessions that interest them and learn more about specific careers.
“The future is in the hands of these young people,” Fauble said. “They are an important part of the future of our community. That’s why it’s important that we make sure they are properly equipped to reach their goals.”
Fauble got involved with NTHS, because she is passionate about helping students and wanted to help them succeed in the future. One way she could do that is by creating opportunities like the Dream Big Summit for students to learn and make connections.
“I’m a product of Jefferson County Schools, and it’s because of my mentors I am the person I am today,” Fauble said. “I wanted to do the same for these students and give back to the community that gave so much to me.”
The NTHS invited Michelle Cantley, who works with teachers on professional development, to speak. Cantley talked about goal setting and encouraged the students to make future-based decisions. This includes learning practical skills and practicing their public speaking skills. Working toward their practical goals can help them find the right career path for them.
“Individual success leads to community success,” Cantley said. “A lot of students think they must stick to one thing, but I’m here to let them know that they don’t have to feel stuck in one career path. It’s about becoming their best self and finding out how school can help them work toward that.”
Some of the other sessions focused on agriculture and food science, networking, using your interests and passions throughout your career, public speaking, coding and design, and more. It created opportunities for students and exposed them to different things that will prepare them for their careers.
Fauble and the NTHS students hope to make the summit an annual event.