All UCS sixth graders will explore careers with business leaders at annual luncheon

A defense industry engineer who specializes in creating sustainable water supplies throughout the world will serve as keynote speaker for the annual Utica Community Schools Career Focus Luncheon set for Wednesday and Thursday, May 1-2, at The Palazzo Grande of Shelby Township.

Angela Bradley, a graduate of Eisenhower High School, will provide more than 2,000 UCS sixth graders information about her background and the importance of education in reaching career goals.

In addition to the keynote presentation, the sixth-graders will also meet with area business leaders in small groups at their tables to discuss their career goals.

Students have been working in their classrooms to discuss their career interests and create a virtual resume that they will show their business mentors. These resumes can feature the use of mixed media – including presentation software and video – to profile their experiences.

Now in its 20th year, this "must attend" event has impacted the lives of literally thousands of young adults.  Business participants share their professional expertise with a table of sixth graders from Utica Community Schools.  In turn, these students, on the brink of adulthood, talk to their role models about their hopes and aspirations.

In addition to a great meal and rewarding conversation, students will hear from Bradley about the educational training that has allowed her to become a recognized leader in protecting the security of the United States through her work in the defense industry. Her passion for science and technology has led her to become one of the most recognized members of the U.S. Army Product Management office for Combat Engineer and Material Handling equipment.

Bradley has worked for the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM) for the past ten years in the engineering and management area.  In her current position, she oversees four well driving systems in Afghanistan and Djibouti, Africa.  She recently traveled to Africa on a humanitarian mission to ensure residents in Djibouti had clean drinking water to sustain their agricultural system and way of life.

The Career Focus event is presented through the efforts of partners Utica Community Schools, the UCS Foundation for Educational Excellence, the Advisor & Source Newspapers, C & G Publishing, and Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce & Industry. 

Sponsorships opportunities are still available by calling 586-797-6953. Sponsorships range from $200 to $1,000.

Depending on the level, the sponsorship includes participation in the luncheon and the opportunity to meet with UCS students to discuss their career interests. All funds raised through the program go to support the career experience for students.