07/06/2026
Students in our Works For Me pre-employment transition program had an exciting week at Bladen County Summer Camp packed with hands-on experiences and career exploration. From learning about military careers with an Army medic recruiter to visiting the Elizabethtown Fire Department and Elizabethtown Police Department, students gained real-world insight into a variety of professions.
Career exploration exercises included completing vocational interest assessments, learning about careers in agriculture with NC State Extension, the culinary arts, and more. Throughout the week, students also focused on essential life skills like organization, safety, and self-advocacy to better prepare for school, work, and beyond. Role-playing workplace scenarios helped them build confidence and communication skills, while a “Reality of Life” simulation with the North Carolina State Employees' Credit Union taught them about financial literacy and budgeting with a firsthand look at managing income and expenses.
Rounding out the curriculum, sessions on post-secondary education and career resources introduced additional pathways for future success. Overall, the camp provided valuable exposure, practical knowledge, and inspiration as students begin thinking about their future goals and opportunities.
A special thanks to Elizabethtown Police Department Chief of Police Mark McMichael and Elizabethtown Fire Department Fire Chief Hollis Freeman for taking the time to speak with our students.
