FHSU University Communications
On October 29, the Ellis County Career Expo brought together more than 900 high school students from across Ellis County for a dynamic day of career exploration and community engagement.
Hosted at the new Hays High School and sponsored by The Chamber in Hays, along with premier sponsor Hess Services, the event featured over 30 local businesses and organizations eager to share post-secondary pathways and employment opportunities with students in grades 10 through 12.
Among the standout contributors was the Fort Hays Tech Affiliation, whose member schools showcased a wide array of technical and career-focused programs designed to prepare students for the evolving workforce in western Kansas. Their presence underscored a shared commitment to building a robust talent pipeline and supporting rural vitality through education and workforce development.
Ben Schears, vice president for Economic and Workforce Development at Fort Hays State University, attended the event and praised the collaborative spirit on display.
“It’s inspiring to see our affiliated schools working hand-in-hand with local businesses and community leaders,” Schears said. “Together, we’re creating real opportunities for students to envision their futures right here in Ellis County, and that’s how we keep our communities strong.”
The Career Expo was organized by the Ellis County Economic Development Committee in partnership with The Chamber in Hays, the Ellis County Workforce Committee, and all four county high schools. The event served as a strategic initiative to bridge the gap between student aspirations and employer needs.
David Clingan, director of recruitment and retention at Grow Hays, emphasized the importance of such events.
“One of the things I hear most from our community businesses is how difficult it is to find and recruit new employees,” Clingan noted. “While at the same time, I regularly speak with students and young adults who tell me they are struggling to find work. That is why having successful events like this Career Expo is so important,” Clingan said.
The Fort Hays Tech Affiliation’s involvement exemplifies how educational institutions can play a pivotal role in regional workforce development. By connecting students with hands-on learning and career pathways, they are helping to shape the future of Ellis County and western Kansas.