SOCCo Donates $3,000 for Western STEAM Career Day

Article presented by Tomlinson Insurance Agency …

PIKETON, OH – The Southern Ohio Cleanup Company (SOCCo) is serving as the main sponsor for the third annual Western STEAM Career Day. The event is designed to inspire students to discover their future career path by exploring a wide variety of possibilities. This year’s goal is the largest to date, with a plan to invite 100 mentors from local businesses, universities, and community guests.

Students saw demonstrations from environmental specialists, agriculture and forestry to electric production, electric powered vehicles, exotic animals, space exploration, carpentry and welding trades and many more.

All students from kindergarten through 12th grade will participate.

“One of the greatest parts of the day is seeing how many people show up for our students,” said STEAM and Career Development Teacher Jennifer Buckler. “The community members take the time to meet our kids where they are, answer their questions, and open doors to opportunities that don’t always fit inside a classroom.”

Working closely with the Growing Rural Independence Together Through Jobs (GRIT) program, Buckler has made a meaningful shift in planning for the day.

“Using the GRIT data, we took a closer look at exposure gaps and student interests and intentionally invited partners who can help expand students’ awareness, knowledge, and curiosity about future opportunities,” said Buckler.

“Events like these provide invaluable exposure that can have a lasting impact on a student’s interests and education,” said SOCCo Program Manager Pat Timbes. “A discussion or activity at this event can set the wheels in motion for a career they didn’t even realize was a possibility.”

The Western STEAM Career Day is May 8.

Litter Media visited the Western STEAM Career Day in the Spring of 2025. See highlights of the day on the video below.