Bright Futures Begin Here: Bucktail’s 3rd Annual College & Career Day Inspires Students
By Autumn Gavlock
RENOVO – On Thursday, May 8, students at Renovo Elementary and Bucktail Area Middle/High School took a deep dive into their futures during the 3rd Annual College & Career Day. The event, held across both campuses, welcomed a diverse group of professionals who shared their expertise, stories, and advice with eager young minds in a day full of inspiration and opportunity.
The day began with interactive, engaging career presentations at Renovo Elementary from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m., where younger students were introduced to a variety of professions in fun and engaging ways. Morning activities included career-based trivia games and prize giveaways, small creative crafts, and even a chance to interact with live horses, an experience that was especially popular with the younger crowd. Students also had the opportunity to explore medical supplies and learn about the tools used in healthcare, sparking curiosity about careers in the medical field.
Among those presenting during the morning session was Sarah Getz of RTG Solutions, who introduced students to the world of commercial roofing. She shared insights and experiences as a woman business owner in a traditionally male-dominated skilled trade, while also highlighting the importance of preventive roof maintenance and materials.
Autumn Gavlock, a tri-marketing specialist for The Record: The Voice of Clinton County, Clinton County Memorial, and Gibson Monument, as well as an independent musician with the acoustic duo 2 A.M. who spoke about the importance of versatility and honesty in marketing. She emphasized that “being versatile and honest builds trust and lasting success,” showcasing how creativity, communication, and integrity are essential in today’s marketing world. Gavlock also noted how clear, trustworthy communication helps build lasting relationships with clients and audiences.
Lin Greenaway of the PA DCNR Bureau of Forestry discussed environmental conservation and careers focused on protecting natural resources. Honorable Judge Craig Miller of The Rosamilia Law Firm provided insights into the legal field, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and justice within the community. Jamie Aurand of Lock Haven Rehabilitation and Senior Living spoke about the compassionate care provided in senior services, highlighting the intersection of healthcare and hospitality.
Healthcare remained a major focus of the morning with the skilled team from Bucktail Medical Center including Kevin Ransom, Aimee Neiswender, Erica Doorman, Nate Lewis, and Crystal Corl who shared insights into the variety of medical and emergency services provided to Clinton County. Their message emphasized the importance of local healthcare and the rewarding careers available close to home.
One of the day’s standout highlights came courtesy of ZK Training, a professional horse training service specializing in colt starting, problem solving, groundwork, project horses, refresher courses, consignment, and travel training. In addition to engaging with students about careers in agriculture and animal behavior, ZK Training brought several live horses to campus. From kindergarten through 12th grade, students were thrilled to interact with the horses, an experience that added a unique, hands-on element to the day and quickly became one of the event’s most memorable features.
SGT Bowes of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard also participated in both morning and afternoon sessions, engaging with students of all ages in conversations about the Guard’s educational benefits, career training programs, and opportunities to serve both locally and nationally.
In the afternoon, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., the event shifted to the Bucktail High School gymnasium, which was transformed into an open-house style career fair. Tables lined the gym, each hosted by a college representative or career professional, creating a welcoming space where students could freely explore, ask questions, and engage in meaningful one-on-one conversations.
Petty Officer Barrera from the United States Navy shared her experiences and highlighted the benefits of technical training, leadership, and global service. Bucktail Medical Center’s team continued their participation into the afternoon, offering additional opportunities for high school students to engage. Kaitlin Conway and Hilary Miles of First Quality Products shared insight into careers in manufacturing, business operations, and quality control.
Representatives from post-secondary institutions included Abi Haynie from Pennsylvania College of Technology, Samantha Beaver from Job Corps, and Lily Summerson from Commonwealth University. Each provided resources and answered student questions to guide them in their future educational plans.
Also in attendance during the afternoon was Jami Dolan representing Career Link, who provided students with information about local workforce services and career planning resources, adding to the day’s emphasis on real-world readiness.
Organized by school guidance counselor Mrs. Devan Everett, the event was designed to expose students across grade levels to a wide range of college and career opportunities. Professionals from various fields offered firsthand insight into potential futures from environmental science and law to skilled trades, military service, marketing, and healthcare.
The event at Renovo/Bucktail Campus highlighted the bright futures awaiting the students of our community, emphasizing the importance of a hard-working, goal-oriented mindset as they begin to explore the many career paths available to them. It was a reminder that success is built on determination, curiosity, and the willingness to consider a variety of opportunities. With professionals representing fields ranging from environmental conservation and law to healthcare, the military, and beyond, students were encouraged to think about their futures and explore careers that align with their passions and talents. The overall message was clear: the future holds countless possibilities, and the young people of Bucktail have the potential to shape their own futures with hard work, focus, and the ambition to pursue their goals.
