East Windsor High School students recently got a fascinating glimpse into the world of land surveying, thanks to a special opportunity organized by our Career Pathways program. On May 1st, the students welcomed two knowledgeable professionals: Larry Geissler from Design Professionals of South Windsor and Rachel Dearborn from Landmark Surveys, LLC of Ellington.
This engaging session shed light on the surveying career, a field ripe with opportunity and actively seeking new talent. As Rachel Dearborn aptly pointed out, “A land surveyor is one of a few professional licenses in Connecticut you can obtain without a formal education. Most start out in learning how to read, calculate, and draft maps. There is also researching, calculating and decision making to experience and master.” This hands-on profession offers a unique pathway for students interested in a blend of technical skills and real-world problem-solving.
The students weren’t just listening; they were actively involved. They dove into a map of their own East Windsor High School, analyzing its topography. History also came alive as they examined a deed from the 1700s, offering a tangible connection to the evolution of land ownership and surveying practices. To top it off, they had the chance to try out some of the specialized tools of the trade, providing a tactile understanding of the surveyor’s craft.
For those students whose interest was piqued, the Young Surveyors Network (@ctyoungsurveyors) offers a valuable resource for further exploration.
This insightful experience is a prime example of how East Windsor High School’s Career Pathways program actively connects students with potential post-secondary career options. Importantly, the work of the Pathways program directly correlates with the district’s Portrait of the Graduate, a district-wide initiative dedicated to ensuring every student achieves success and is ready for college, career, and life as responsible citizens, informed lifelong learners, and self-aware individuals. By exposing students to fields like surveying, we empower them to explore their interests, develop valuable skills, and chart a course towards a fulfilling future.
If you’re interested in learning more about the enriching opportunities offered through East Windsor High School’s Career Pathways program, please reach out to EWHS Assistant Principal Barbara Kaminski.