May 6 Career Takeover: Hard Hats, Heroes and Toolfest

Author:

Communications

Apr 27, 2026

Save the date for May 6, when Career Takeover 2026: Hard Hats and Heroes, featuring Toolfest will take over the Showplace Arena in Upper Marlboro! The event, sponsored by Employ Prince George's and Youth Career Connections, will welcome 700 eighth-grade students for a hands-on career exploration experience.

“The eighth-grade year is a time of transition,” said Diane Roberts, director of youth services for Employ Prince George's. “Students need opportunities to connect classroom learning to real-world careers. At Toolfest, they'll see how math, reading and science apply to the paths they may pursue.”

Students will engage in:

The Trade Zone: Live construction and skilled trades demonstrations with hands-on tool sessions.
The Heroes Zone: Career exploration with professionals in the military, law enforcement and fire safety.

Participants also will connect with industry experts at interactive learning stations and enjoy lunch and a live DJ.

Career planning resources:

SchooLinks: A modern college and career readiness platform that helps students discover strengths and interests, explore colleges and careers, and create an individualized career and academic plan to reach their post-secondary goals.
O*Net Interest Profiler: A great tool to help students discover their work-related interests and find matching career paths.
CareerOneStop: A "skills-to-career" matching tool that shows students where their current talents can take them.
BigFuture: A comprehensive resource to explore careers, plan for college, and navigate financial aid.

Stay connected: Follow Youth Career Connections on Instagram @epgycc or email YCC@co.pg.md.us for updates.

All Prince George's County Public Schools 8th graders are invited.

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