On Saturday, March 14, the West Baton Rouge Career Academy hosted a vibrant STEM Fair that brought together students, teachers, families, and community members for a day full of creativity, skill, and business. The event highlighted the incredible hands-on learning happening across career and technical programs, with students proudly showcasing skills and selling their work.
One of the most popular areas featured the craftsmanship of carpentry and welding students. Visitors could purchase handmade items including wooden benches, Adirondack chairs, and planters created by the carpentry students. Seasonal favorites like Christmas trees, Easter bunny and egg garden displays, cut out by carpentry students and painted by the talented art students at Port Allen High School, were also a hit. Welding students displayed impressive fire pits, demonstrating both technical precision and creativity. Other student made items for sale included 3D printed fidget spinners and small planters from the drafting students, as well as a variety of homemade foods like soups, coleslaw, and baked goods. Every purchase made during the event directly supported the CTE programs.
Health science students played an important role in the fair. EMR student Alayna W. gave live demonstrations on how to properly use an EpiPen and shared CPR basics with attendees. Her confidence and knowledge were evident, and she shared her goal of continuing her training by enrolling in an EMT class next year.
In the cosmetology classroom, under the direction of their teacher, Ms. Jenkins, students Le’amire and Kai demonstrated their growing skills and ambition. They spoke about their plans to take their training to the next level, focusing on braiding and cutting techniques. During the event, they even performed a manicure for Summer Dann, Director of the Capital Area STEM Network, applying purple gel nail polish just in time for an upcoming gala. This is a perfect example of students delivering real, client-based experiences.
Finally, the robotics program showcased the power of mentorship and teamwork. Shayle Bickford, a teacher and robotics mentor, works alongside her husband, Jesse Bickford, an automation systems engineer with Georgia Pacific. Together, they guide students through problem-solving and design challenges. As Shayle shared, “I love seeing kids find problems and solve them. They have to design a solution. I like seeing them light up when they find the design that works.” Jesse echoed that passion, adding, “I like mentoring because it helps grow future engineers. We have to keep the cycle going.” Their dedication is helping shape the next generation of innovators.
The WBR Career and Technical STEM Fair was more than just an event. It was a celebration of student talent, dedication, and future career pathways. From engineering and healthcare to skilled trades and cosmetology, students demonstrated that they are learning technical and entrepreneurial skills that will benefit them in their future careers. Special thanks to Board Member, Candice Breaux, for the invitation.
