Next Step Carbon for Parents

Begin Discussing Careers Early

Career exploration starts now. Along with focusing on academics, encourage your child to learn about different career options and what might be a good fit for their skills and interests.
Parent Tip: The more they know now, the better choices they’ll make when it comes to education or training after high school.

Keep options open. Explore all career and education possibilities—from four-year colleges to apprenticeships, technical programs, or military service—and have a backup plan.
Parent Tip: There’s no single “right” path to success. Help your child start thinking about careers in middle and high school, but stay flexible as they grow.

High school is for exploring, not deciding for life. It’s okay if your child doesn’t know their “perfect” job yet. The goal is to discover their interests and talents through new experiences.
Parent Tip: Relieve pressure by focusing on exploration. Encourage activities, classes, or programs that connect personal strengths to real career opportunities.

Career navigation is ongoing. Even after landing a first job or completing a degree, career growth takes ongoing effort.
Parent Tip: Teach your child that career planning is a lifelong skill. Opportunities will come—and change—over time.

Ways to Support Career Interests

• Encourage graduation. A high school diploma opens doors to better jobs, training programs, and higher education.

• Connect with school counselors. Ask about career development programs, your child’s interest areas, and opportunities to explore them.

• Find resources. Look for books, shows, podcasts, or online videos that match their interests.

• Build a network. Introduce your child to people you know in their field of interest. Real connections often lead to valuable insights and opportunities.

• Stay involved in scheduling. Help choose electives, clubs, or activities that align with career goals—many schools now group these by career pathways.

• Explore local career training. Check out the Carbon Career & Technical Institute (CCTI) for hands-on programs that prepare students for well-paying jobs and further education.

• Use online tools. Platforms like PA Career Zone offer career videos and interest assessments. After watching, discuss what they liked, disliked, or want to learn more about.

• Arrange a job shadow. Give your child the chance to spend time with a professional to see a career in action.

• Encourage mentorships and internships. By junior or senior year, these experiences can help your child confirm their interests and learn the skills needed to succeed.

Your Role Matters

By encouraging exploration, keeping options open, and connecting your child with resources, you’re helping them take confident steps toward a rewarding future—right here in Carbon County or wherever their journey takes them.