Local Partnerships Provide Career Opportunities for High School Students at Senior Hiring Fair

***NEWS RELEASE***

Left to Right: Two QACHS CTE Students, Avery Kennard and Austin Hahn, discuss the Utili Train Lineman Program
Left to Right: Two QACHS CTE Students, Avery Kennard and Austin Hahn, discuss the Utili Train Lineman Program


Centreville, MD – Through a strong collaboration between Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, Talbot County Public Schools, Queen Anne’s County Economic and Tourism Development, Centreville Rotary, Kent Island Rotary, and the Centreville YMCA, more than 180 high school students recently participated in a dynamic Hiring Fair designed to connect them with real-world career opportunities.


Career Coaches and Career Counselors involved in organizing the event included Karen Hesson (Kent Island High School), Betsy Ricketts (Queen Anne’s County High School), Danielle Haley (Easton High School), and Cara Breeding (St. Michaels Middle High School), whose collective efforts helped bring this opportunity to life for students across both counties.


More than 60 local businesses and organizations attended the event, offering students valuable insight into part-time and full-time employment, post-graduation pathways, and summer job opportunities. Throughout the morning, students engaged directly with employers, asked questions, and explored potential next steps for their futures.


Students shared their excitement and appreciation for the experience. “It provided so many career options. I was able to talk to every military branch and welding companies – all in one room. I thought it was perfect.” said Chayse Franklin, Senior at QACHS.


This marks the second year that the Career Centers have hosted the Hiring Fair at the Centreville YMCA. Building on last year’s success, the event continues to expand, providing even more students with meaningful opportunities to network and prepare for life beyond high school.


Organizers hope to see the event continue to grow in the coming years, strengthening partnerships between schools, local businesses, and community organizations while supporting students in achieving their career goals.


For more information about future events or how to get involved, please contact Queen Anne’s County Public Schools Career Centers.


Betsy Ricketts
Queen Anne’s County High School
[email protected]
410-758-0500 x 215


Karen Hesson
Kent Island High School
[email protected]
410-604-2070 Ext. 4101

Left to Right: Karen Hesson (KIHS), Betsy Ricketts (QACHS), Cara Breeding (SMHS), Danielle Haley (EHS)
Left to Right: Karen Hesson (KIHS), Betsy Ricketts (QACHS), Cara Breeding (SMHS), Danielle Haley (EHS)

Participating Businesses for the 2026 Senior Hiring Fair
Participating Businesses for the 2026 Senior Hiring Fair

Members from Centreville and Kent Island Rotary Clubs
Members from Centreville and Kent Island Rotary Clubs

QACPS Career Coach team, Adam Tolley, and Dr. Kibler at the Preston Automotive Group table



Drive containing more photos here

Download a PDF copy of the news release here.

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