Approximately 700 eighth grade students will be participating in the "Career Extravaganza 2008" hands-on career fair April 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pioneer Technology Center in Ponca City.

The career fair will have interactive display booths with activities designed to help students explore and think about their interests and abilities in relation to future careers. Students will meet people from area businesses and industries who can assist them in developing the necessary skills and obtaining experience for workforce success.

According to Lori Evans, Pioneer Technology Center (PTC) counselor, this career fair will be a fun and exciting event for area eighth graders. "These students are at a time when they are starting to think about a future career. This will be a great opportunity for them to learn about the many options available to them as they consider their career paths."

Among the businesses participating are Kay Electric Co-Op, U.S. Army, Ponca City Medical Center, Ponca City Fire and Emergency Services, Kay County Farm Service Soil Conservation, Dr. Graphix Multimedia, The Ranch Wellness Center, Bliss Industries LLC, Smart Start Success by 6, Kay County Health Department, Northern Oklahoma Community College, Army National Guard, Cowley County Community College, Rural Health Projects, OSU Okmulgee, ConocoPhillips, Northern Oklahoma School of Aviation, Sykes Enterprises, Manufacturing Education Training System (METS) group including PCDA, Mertz Manufacturing, Smith Tool, the Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA), Cameron Specialties, Asbury Machine Corporation, and Pioneer Technology Center; and the Advanced Construction Training System (ACTS) group including Sooner Construction, Rick Scott Construction, Watson Construction, Superior Windows, Stolhand Heat and Air, PCDA, and Pioneer Technology Center.

For more information, please contact Lori Evans or Molly Kyler at Pioneer Technology Center, 762-8336.