Members of the Rotary Club of Sedona Village volunteered at the “Pathways to Careers” Exploratory Day held at the Yavapai College Verde Valley Campus in Clarkdale.
The program, hosted by the Arizona Community Foundation in partnership with Yavapai College and VACTE (Verde Valley Career & Technical Education District), welcomed 210 middle school and eighth-grade students from throughout the Verde Valley.
Students toured a wide range of vocational programs including Allied Health, Cosmetology, Law Enforcement, Nursing, Construction, HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing. Faculty and instructors shared practical information about each profession — including required education and certifications, scholarship opportunities, and potential income — helping students better understand real-world career pathways.
Village Rotarians Paul Butler, Rob Schaefer, Del Rae Cruzen, and Chuck Marr assisted with campus tours and student coordination throughout the day.
“Youth is one of Rotary’s core areas of service. When we help young people explore real career pathways and understand the education behind them, we’re investing in their confidence, their direction, and the future strength of our community,” said Del Rae Cruzen Youth Committee member of the Rotary Club of Sedona Village.
The Pathways to Careers program is offered twice yearly, providing hands-on exposure to technical and professional career opportunities available within the region.
From left, Chuck Marr, Pual Butler, Rob Schaefer, Del Rae Cruzen.
Photo above story: Eighth-grade Clarkdale Jerome students learn masonry at Skilled Trades Center at Yavapai College Clarkdale Campus