09/18/2026
Middle School/High School Career Fair YES or NO? I am an overwhelming YES!
Earlier this week, I had the privilege of representing High Plains Bank at the 24th Lake County High School, Middle School Career Fair, organized by the Leadville Lions Club with my friend and co-worker Juanita Tafoya McCoy.
I was honored to have the opportunity to connect with students from several area high schools, because participating in events like this brings me so much joy! These events also give me an immense amount of hope for the future. I am constantly hearing people say, "Kids these days..." my immediate thought is, "Well, then you haven't met very many 'kids these days'!"
The students we spoke with were thoughtful, genuinely interested and, some, more knowledgeable about their futures than I ever was at their age (or even for years after!).
I always encouraged my sons to attend every career fair opportunity that was available to them, even if they weren't actively looking for a job. You never know who you will meet! Plus at the very least, it builds essential soft skills like eye contact, a firm handshake, and building your personal elevator pitch. "Think of it as a dress rehearsal so your very first time isn't when the stakes are highest." I would tell them!
That being said, these events aren't just great for the students, they are incredible for the business professionals too. We also have the opportunity to:
Refine Our Own Pitch: When a student puts you on the spot and asks, "What do you LIKE most about your job?" instead of just "What do you do?" it forces you to pause and reflect. While Juanita and I do totally different jobs within the bank our answer was the same. Being compassionate problem solvers and truly helping our customers is what we LOVE the most about our jobs!
Practicing Social Skills: Unlike me, not everyone talks for a living, so having interactive opportunities to share information about the bank and how we are not an institution of transactions, but rather we are a true financial partner is wonderful!
Community Connection: Seeing 60 companies and professionals, including inspiring Lake County HS alumni who returned to give back, showed the true strength of this community. We just love being an organization that can represent a set of banks committed to being Independent Community Bankers of Colorado!
Not to be forgotten, a HUGE thank you to the organizers for such a well-planned event. From the clever stamp-card system that encouraged students to explore six distinct industry categories, the questions they were prepared with to get the conversations rolling, to the incredible hospitality (including a wonderful lunch and the Athletic Director rolling through with a coffee cart!), businesses were treated with immense respect and appreciation.
Overall, it was a wonderful day. I tell you: If you ever have the chance to participate in a local career fair, jump at it! BUT, don't forget the candy, some swag doesn't hurt either!
Post written by Kimberly King Taylor, External Relations Coordinator
