IDOT Launches First Career Day in Peoria
Popular Venue Attracts Hundreds of Illinois Students; Provides Unforgettable Day of Transportation Education, Workforce Development
PEORIA – Officials from the Illinois Department of
Transportation (IDOT) today welcomed hundreds of central
Illinois students to the agency’s first Career Day conference in
Peoria. The event, which was developed to inform Illinois
students of the many rewarding opportunities in the
transportation industry, also attracted dozens of companies and
universities from across the region.
“Career Day is an exceptional and popular forum where
students can gain a thorough understanding of the transportation
industry at an early age, along with insightful information and
tools to better illustrate various rewarding career paths in
transportation,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L.
Schneider. “We have hosted large events like this throughout the
state, and the popularity and general demand for this
information have enabled us to introduce and expand this series
into the Peoria market as well.”
More than 200 students were expected to attend today’s event
in Peoria. Students had access to 40 exhibits, along with
hands-on activities and several pieces of heavy equipment used
to build and maintain Illinois’ system of highways and bridges,
all explained and led by qualified transportation professionals.
The transportation-related careers highlighted include civil
engineering, engineering technology, safety engineering, and
surveying and construction trades. According to the U.S.
Department of Labor, as many as 1 million new jobs are forecast
for the construction industry by 2016, and numerous job
opportunities in other sectors of transportation will open as
baby boomers retire during the years ahead.
In addition to learning about career opportunities,
participating students received written information about
construction careers, including brochures and bookmarks.
Attendees also received items such as a hard hat, and safety
glasses provided by industry partners.
IDOT partnered with representatives of the transportation
industry, educational institutions and community-based
organizations to host this event. For additional information
about Career Day, please visit
http://www.dot.il.gov/careerday/BI.html |
