BPS Career Academy students explore job opportunities

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – The Official Portal for the North Dakota State Government says that the 2021-2022 high school graduates not going into post-secondary education 12 months after graduation was at 41.7 percent. This has slightly increased in the past couple of years.

Bismarck Career Academy career advisors said industry needs and CTE careers propel students into the workforce.

Brynn Wimmers said she loves the career academy and welding as well as getting job experience in high school with skills she could use in careers that don’t require college.

“I think that a lot more students are seeing less value on a four-year degree and looking more at how they can get into the workforce and make a difference without having to go into student debt,” said Wimmers.

Jaydn Levi, a senior at Century High School, will be a year ahead of his peers when he graduates.

“Yeah, I wanted to get a head start in my life instead of how the economy is going now,” said Levi.

He is earning while learning with a first-year apprenticeship as an electrician.

“Students are really looking to save time, save money, enter the workforce, start opportunities early. We’re really excited. We are connecting kids who are getting dual credit certifications, early entry, and taking classes online as part of apprenticeship programs early while they’re in high school,” said Laura Henkelman, a career advisor.

She said the school district has always done this but is expanding it to more career opportunities.

“I think it’s also meeting industry needs. I think things are changing. And as more people are retiring, that need is really there in the industry. So the industry is constantly working with others and partners and us being one of them to how to get kids connected early,” said Henkelman.

One of the career academy partners is Bobcat, where some students have full-time jobs.

Henkelman said the career academy is helping students find the perfect fit for their educational journey.

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