STEM and the Arts Career Showcase connects student talents to future jobs

Students looking through telescopeMore than 4,000 students and families from middle school through college will learn about careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the arts at the 2015 STEM and the Arts Career Showcase April 24-26.

Hosted by Vital Link of Orange County in partnership with OC Fair Imaginology, the showcase will take place at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 24 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 25 and April 26.

Organizers say the goal is to help students see how their interests and passions align with real-world jobs – and to motivate them to pursue higher levels of education.

Two girls looking at sculptureStudents looking at demonstrationStudents standing and watching a computer demonstrationBudding artists and future scientists will have the opportunity to explore career opportunities and talk to experts in the STEM fields. In addition, a job recruitment area will be available with exhibits and information on internships and paid positions.

The STEM and the Arts Career Showcase will feature competitions, exhibits, workshops, demonstrations and a variety of industry speakers. Attendees will even get to check out an interactive robotics challenge with student-built robots, as well as alternative fuel vehicles designed by teams of Orange County high school and college students.

Admission for the event is free on Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26. Contact Vital Link for the cost to attend on Friday, April 24. Parking at the OC Fair and Event Center is $7.