The Career ChoICE Youth Expo is expected to attract thousands of middle and high school students from multiple school divisions across the southside, introducing them to local careers and better preparing them for work expectations.

For the second consecutive year, the event is being held at two locations: the East event occurred at Hampden-Sydney College Sept. 20-21; the West event will occur tomorrow and Thursday at the Olde Dominion Agricultural Center (ODAC), located at 19783 U.S. Highway 29 South in Chatham.

Dozens of employers will lead hands-on activities at their booths to expose students to career paths and job opportunities available regionally. Each student participant receives a booklet with valuable information on the 17 career clusters defined by the Virginia Department of Education – including a young professional profile and a snapshot of occupations, wages, demand and required education.

The event will serve students from Danville and Martinsville, as well as Pittsylvania, Henry, Halifax, and Patrick counties.