Yellowstone Times

Gallatin College Montana State University is preparing to host its third annual career and technical education fair titled GC-360: A World of CTE. Approximately 500 middle and high school students are expected to participate in the event, which will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds.

The event will feature 30 local companies and Gallatin College MSU’s 32 programs, offering hands-on demonstrations of various education and career paths. Attendees will have opportunities to engage in activities such as producing holographic images with the American Center for Optics Manufacturing, practicing interior design with Black Timber Furniture, and trying virtual welding.

"It allows industry members to connect with the community and ignite that 'What am I going to do when I grow up?' thought for the students," stated Jessi Cannaday, event coordinator and enrollment manager for Gallatin College MSU. She expressed enthusiasm for the impact students could potentially have within their communities thanks to the college’s new certificate programs and upcoming building expansion.

The event is open to all students and the public from 10:30 a.m. to noon at no cost.

To conclude the fair, Glenn Goversten, a retired high school physics teacher from Missoula, will present a laser light show at 12:15 p.m. Hosted by MSU's Science Math Resource Center, the show will demonstrate photonics and optics principles using music, lasers, and raw eggs.

Mark Craig, director of Gallatin College MSU’s photonics and laser technology program, explained the value of interacting with local professionals: "If young folks can see people that are like a parent figure, a neighbor or just everyday people in their life that are working professionally in these areas, that can be very helpful."

For additional information and RSVP details, visit the website: https://gallatin.montana.edu/outreach/GC360.html.