EUGENE, Ore. — Sparks flew, engines roared, and drones buzzed overhead as Lane Community College transformed into a hub of hands-on discovery last Friday during the 10th Annual Trades Expo. The high-energy event invited students to explore skilled careers and technical training opportunities in a dynamic, interactive setting.
A total of 474 high school students from 25 different schools registered for the event, which featured demonstrations, workshops, and exhibits across Lane’s Career Technical Education programs. Students had the chance to explore career paths in construction, welding, diesel technology, CNC/machining, automotive, computer technology, and more.
In addition to Lane faculty and students leading activities in their respective program areas, more than 60 vendors, including local employers and industry organizations, were on site to engage with students and provide insight into regional workforce opportunities. The event offered students a rare opportunity to connect directly with professionals and educators, ask questions, and learn about the training needed for high-demand, high-wage careers.
A highlight of this year’s Expo was a dynamic demonstration by Lane’s Aviation Unmanned Aircraft Systems program, which showcased drone technology and career possibilities in aviation and remote sensing.
Now in its tenth year, the Trades Expo continues to grow in scale and impact. It reinforces Lane Community College’s commitment to hands-on learning, career exploration, and community partnership. The event supports workforce development by helping students see the real-world application of their interests and encouraging them to take the next steps in their education and career journeys.
For more information about Lane’s Career Technical Education programs, visit lanecc.edu/cte.
Lane Community College educates over 15,000 students annually at six locations across Lane County and online. Students and alumni from all 50 states and 79 countries create more than an $675 million dollar impact on the local economy, helping to support more than 8,900 local jobs. Lane provides affordable, quality, professional technical and college transfer programs; business development and employee training; academic, language and life skills development; and lifelong personal development and enrichment courses.