Career Showcase a success in Ritzville

RITZVILLE – Area students had the opportunity to learn about local businesses and employment Thursday, Oct. 19, during the Career Showcase at Lind-Ritzville High School.

"Today's Career Showcase at Lind-Ritzville High School was a huge success," Adams County Development Council Executive Director Kyle Niehenke said.

Niehenke, who organized the event, also put together a similar showcase at Othello High School.

"This event connected local businesses, many of whom are located right here in east Adams County, with the next generation of their workforce," he said. "This showcase focused on attracting, developing, supporting and retaining local students to create a sustainable pipeline of employees for our local and regional businesses, and to expose students to the multitude of career opportunities available to them right here in Adams County."

Thirty-five businesses participated in 16 career clusters, he said. And most of the 250 students came from Lind, Ritzville and Washtucna.

"We invited our neighboring Lincoln County as well, with students coming in from Harrington and Sprague," he said.

Niehenke gave " a huge shout out" to participants.

"Your presence truly enhanced the experience for everyone involved," he said, calling the showcase "interactive" and "informative."

Participating businesses include Northwest Farm Credit Services (Ag West Farm Credit), Clearway Energy Group, Columbia Grain International, Leffel, Otis & Warwick, P.S. , Legacy Telecommunications, Ontivity Co., Les Schwab Tire Centers, LIUNA Local 238, McGuire, Dewulf, Kragt & Johnson, Odessa Trading Co., OIC of Washington, RDO Equipment Co., J.R. Simplot Co., Stoess Manufacturing, Waste Management and Wheatland Bank.

Adams County agencies participating included District Court, Integrated Health Care Services, Mosquito Control Board, Probation, Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Public Works and the Sheriff's Office.

Other government agencies participating in the event included the U.S. Army, Washington State Patrol, Washington State University, the state Department of Transportation, SkillSource Regional Workforce Board, Big Bend Community College, East Adams Rural Health, the state Employment Security Department, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife and Lind-Ritzville Schools.

Utilities participating in the event included Avista Gas & Electric, Big Bend Electric Co-op.