Fifth grade students were treated to a career sampler today at Johnson Elementary School. The school’s annual Career Day featured a couple dozen professionals who spoke about their careers – ranging from engineering and architectural to hospitality and medical fields.

 

Dr. Mike Rollins had the students’ full attention as he spoke about his career as an obstetrician and the stages of prenatal development. Veterinarian Assistant Dessie Mazhar was also a hit. Not only did she explain different career options relating to animal care, but she also brought in a couple of special guests – a ferret included.

 

Johnson Elementary Counselor Julie Fulks has headed up Career Day for several years.

 

“The kids love it,” she said. “It gives them ideas about different career fields they may someday be interested in. They may not necessarily want to be a dental hygienist, but they may want to do something relating to the dental field." 

 

Fulks said she annually receives good feedback about the event, from both students and parents.

 

“At the beginning of the school year, the kids ask if their parents can be part of Career Day,” she said. “This year, I had so many volunteers on board, I only had to make a couple phone calls to fill in spots.”

 

Four different speakers addressed four classrooms simultaneously throughout the day. Speakers include Becky Hutchinson, graphic designer; Matt Poling of the U.S. Army; Nathan Price; salesman; David Schepis, finance director for Harry Green Chevrolet; Philip Freeman, architect; Doug and Rose Rossana, electrical and industrial engineers; B.J. Goodwin, oil technician for Nabors; Jodi Jones, nurse/clinic manager; Jim Martin, owner of CityNet/Telecom; Michelle Duez, executive director, Greater Bridgeport Convention and Visitors Bureau; Julie Perine, Connect-Bridgeport; Kristen Hatfield/Shaine Gaines, volunteer firefighters; David Cava, Anero Resources; Dee Johnson, Manager, Courtyard by Mariott; Kimberly Woods, biometric engineer; Kelly Zummo, aerospace engineer; Jamie Hamrick, prevention resource officer; Chris Goode, emergency room physician; Jeff Madden, surgeon; Tim McNeely, athletic director at Fairmont State University; Holly Henry of the FBI; Joseph Dorchak, radiologist; Jason Mike, restaurant general manager and Christy Shaffer, dental hygienist.