Fairfield County Workforce Center's New Level Up! Program Introduces Students to Careers in Industrial Technology and Drones

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 29, 2026
 

 
[CARROLL, OH] - The Fairfield County Workforce Center successfully hosted its inaugural Level Up! STEM program on July 27 and 28, welcoming students entering grades 9 and 10 for the 2026-27 school year to two days of hands-on career exploration, focused on industrial technology and drone applications. The free program offered to students, with priority given to those from Fairfield County, was designed to spark interest in careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through interactive, real-world experiences.
 
During the two-day program, students participated in sessions that provided experience and skills not typically available in a traditional classroom. The first day, Hocking College instructors introduced participants to industrial technologies, helping them develop professional skills while exploring careers in high-tech production, engineering, robotics and advanced manufacturing.
The second day focused on drone technology, giving students hands-on experience and insight into careers in aerial photography, mapping, construction inspection, agriculture technology and emergency response. The program was fully funded by the Fairfield County Workforce Center and offered at no cost to participating families.
 
"Many students entering ninth and tenth grades are just starting to explore what they might want to do after high school," said Rick Szabrak, Director of Economic and Workforce Development at the Fairfield County Workforce Center. "We designed this program to give them a fun, hands-on introduction to STEM careers that could spark lasting interest. We've had hundreds of students participate in our summer camps over the past few years, and families have asked for opportunities for high school students to continue their experiential learning. It was exciting to see students engaged, asking questions and discovering career paths they may not have previously considered."
 
Research continues to demonstrate the value of early exposure to STEM experiences. A 2025 study by the U.S. Department of Education found that many professionals pursuing STEM careers credit camps and extracurricular learning opportunities during their youth with helping shape their educational and career interests. The Fairfield County Workforce Center plans to continue expanding youth programming that connects students with hands-on learning experiences and local career opportunities in high-demand industries.
 
Hocking College, the Fairfield County Commissioners, and the Fairfield 33 Development Alliance all contributed to the camp so it would be free for interested students as a way to help develop the future workforce.
 
For more information about the Fairfield County Workforce Center, visit FairfieldCountyWorkforce.com.
 
For media inquiries, contact Temple Montanez at temple@krilecommunications.com