Community Partners Open Doors at MNPS Career Exploration Fair
Students explored a wide range of industries, while local organizations shared pathways, possibilities, and inspiration
The 2025 Career Exploration Fair, held at the Music City Center in November, welcomed more than 9,000 Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) freshmen for a day of hands-on learning and discovery. Nearly 120 PENCIL Partners introduced students to a wide range of career pathways, and by all accounts, the experience was just as energizing for partners as it was for the students exploring their futures.
While there were countless meaningful interactions throughout the day, we gathered a few highlights from PENCIL Partners Erin Bender (Nashville Zoo), La’Kishia Harris (Turner Construction Company), Aaron Helvig (Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum), Ray Holloman (Holloman Solutions), and Kristin Swaffer, Alicia Boutwell, and Shohreh Daraei (Ascension Saint Thomas).
Across industries, partners shared how much they enjoyed connecting with students — learning about their interests, answering questions, and sharing their own college and career journeys. Many described the powerful “lightbulb” moments when a student realizes, “This could be a future for me.”
Ray Holloman, a tech entrepreneur, challenged students to name five parts of a computer for a chance to win a prize. He emphasized the importance of showing young people what entrepreneurship can look like, noting that “it’s impactful for students to see someone working for themselves.”
At the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum booth, Aaron Helvig and his team offered students the chance to hold and play a banjo and mandolin while learning about careers across the museum’s departments, as well as the diverse college and career pathways that led staff members to their current roles.
Several partners shared that students were surprised to learn about the behind-the-scenes roles that support an organization. Erin Bender spoke with students who love animals but aren’t sure they want to work directly in animal care. These ninth graders were excited to discover they could work around animals and support conservation efforts without being a keeper.
Similarly, the Ascension Saint Thomas team shared a story about a student who was surprised to learn how distinct roles work together to support the hospital’s Mobile Unit and meet patients where they are. It was a great reminder of the wide range of healthcare career paths students may not yet realize exist.
“The Career Exploration Fair reaffirmed how important partnerships between industry and education truly are,” said La’Kishia Harris of Turner Construction Company. “Every student who stopped by our booth represented possibility, talent, and potential. We are grateful for the opportunity to pour into the next generation and proud to support an event that aligns so closely with Turner Construction’s values.”
For PENCIL Partners, participating each year is about ensuring students understand just how many opportunities lie ahead. Events like the Career Exploration Fair help students imagine what’s possible — and take meaningful first steps toward a future full of promise.
