On Feb. 20, Centennial Medical Center partnered with Frisco ISD (FISD) and Collin College to present a Showcase and Career Fair at the college conference center. Both Collin College and FISD students, grades six through 12, listened to presentations from a variety of local professionals, including teachers, judges, entrepreneurs, health care professionals, chefs, artists, computer specialists and counselors.

Centennial CEO Joe Thomason and FISD Coordinator of Student Achievement and Involvement Dr. Larry Lewis were both on hand as eager students received in-depth looks at select professions. Speakers discussed the education and training required to obtain their positions as well as their day-to-day responsibilities. Collin College instructors were also available to advise attendees on the opportunities the college provides and how a degree enhances the future of both undecided students and individuals who’ve already established careers.

The event, in its first year, was designed to encourage students to be proactive in their search for a profession that they enjoy and to help them decipher what high school or college courses will properly equip them for a successful future.

Although this was Centennial’s first opportunity to partner with Collin College, the hospital has recently been involved in several FISD initiatives, including the Student and Parent Empowerment Program, which seeks to help families address topics like fitness, health, leadership, responsibility and how to build a successful future.