Career Day to showcase professions for teens
Moorpark High School students will explore a variety of professions and vocations during the annual Career Day event next week.
"Career Day is meant to help students look towards the future and see that anything is possible and to realize that their education will get them somewhere," said Diana Prickett, college career adviser at the school.
Among the 75 presenters will be actors, accountants, umpires, healthcare providers, professional contractors and police officers. They will answer questions and provide insight to future job seekers.
Dr. Alvin Miller, a Simi Valley resident who practices pediatric medicine in Thousand Oaks, said he has been attending Career Day for the past four years because he wants to help young people choose a fulfilling profession.
In addition to providing information for local students, Miller counsels high school seniors who participate in a summer medical career program at Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center, and Simi Valley Hospital. The Los Angeles Pediatric Society sponsors the educational program.
"It's a passion of mine to get high school kids interested in medical career programs. There are a lot of needs and many opportunities," he said.
Miller has been a pediatrician for more than 50 years. He also specializes in neonatal care. "I enjoy watching kids grow up," said the veteran doctor, who has seen several generations of patients during his career.
Some of his former patients who are now parents bring their children to Miller's medical office in Thousand Oaks for regular visits.
Local entrepreneur David Bagwell also volunteers at Career Day to encourage young people to pursue their dreams.
"I do this because I support education," he said.
As the owner of a construction business that serves residential and commercial customers, Bagwell said continued education is a key element in his success.
"There are careers in construction for engineers, accountants and business people and for those who decide to go to trade school," said Bagwell, who offers internships geared to college students.
Construction work is a multifaceted field that is constantly evolving, so young people who are interested in this type of career should be as educated as they can be. Math and business skills as well as some knowledge of science will enable people to remain competitive, Bagwell said. Without training, workers have few opportunities to advance.
Bagwell employs 16 people. His Moorpark business remains successful because he and his employees keep learning new skills and they are involved in community activities, Bagwell said. Contractors must adapt to current trends, such as green construction methods to maximize energy efficiency and meet the demand, he said.
"With the market right now, it's extremely more competitive," said Bagwell, who encourages young people to pursue a career that they will enjoy. "My dad told me to find out what you really love and become good at it, and the money will find you."
Prickett agreed. Career Day is a guiding post that is meant to help students find a satisfying career path. The presenters have inspired students to become firefighters, architects and pilots, she said.
The event can also encourage students to start taking the right classes, to figure out what they might want to be and what they need to work on to get there, Prickett said.
Students in all grades attend the event.
Career Day will be Nov. 20 at Moorpark High School.


