HAWKINS COUNTY, TN — On Friday, October 16, 2026, seventh and eighth-grade students across Hawkins County stepped into the future at the "Future Pathways Expedition." Designed to spark curiosity and connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities, the event engaged 828 middle school students through three immersive, 90-minute interactive rotations combining high-tech science, hands-on skilled trades, and direct discussions with industry and educational leaders.
While hosted in collaboration with the Hawkins County Schools Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department, the district emphasizes that the entire experience was born from the vision and initiative of Dr. Brittney Rhoton. Dr. Rhoton secured the competitive grant that brought the renowned Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Traveling Science Fair to Hawkins County. The CTE Department stepped in to partner alongside her initial vision, rallying industry and educational leaders to build out a comprehensive, unforgettable career exploration day for students.
Pulling off an event of this magnitude for 828 students was a true district-wide team effort. The Hawkins County Schools Food Services Department orchestrated seamless meal service across multiple rotations, ensuring every student was fed and energized throughout the day. Simultaneously, the HCS Technology Department and dedicated school staff worked behind the scenes to manage infrastructure, digital connectivity, and logistical operations across every station.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory Traveling Science Fair
Students explored cutting-edge science and technology inside interactive trailers and exhibits provided by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Traveling Science Fair:
Subatomic Research: Interactive neutron simulators allowed students to step into the world of subatomic particles and discover how neutron research drives breakthroughs in manufacturing and medicine.
Artificial Intelligence & Computing: Exhibits on neuromorphic computing demonstrated how modern technology mimics the human brain to process data.
Chemistry & Physical Sciences: Demonstrations on atomic density, centrifuges, and cleanroom environments offered a tactile look at core scientific principles.
Microbiology & Energy: Interactive modules covered microscopic life forms alongside clean energy solutions for a changing world.
Skills in Action
The "Skills in Action" rotation brought technical careers and public service to life through live demonstrations and facility tours:
Skilled Trades & Technical Education: Community partners including TCAT Phipps Bend, TCAT Elizabethton, and the TriCities Masonry Association demonstrated essential techniques in construction, manufacturing, and technical trades.
Public Safety & Conservation: Students gained insight into vital community professions through hands-on presentations by VHS Fire Science, the U.S. Forestry Department, and Hawkins County EMS.
Career Connections Port
Armed with interactive "passports" filled with guided questions, students navigated stations at the "Career Connections Port" to explore post-secondary education and career readiness pathways:
Higher Education & Academics: Representatives from Walters State Community College highlighted dual-enrollment programs, while ETSU Gear Up provided guidance on college preparedness.
Regional Industry & Engineering: Leaders from Eastman, TVA, Air Gas, and Mattern & Craig Engineering/Surveying shared regional career opportunities in STEM and manufacturing.
Financial Literacy & Professional Training: Eastman Credit Union discussed financial readiness alongside specialized training pathways, such as CDL driver training programs.
Healthcare, Agriculture, & Applied Research: Students connected with professionals from TCAT Morristown Nursing, the 4-H Extension Office, and the Gray Fossil Site.
Building Tomorrow's Workforce Today
By connecting middle school students with regional employers, trade institutes, and higher education partners, the event provided 7th and 8th graders with a clear vision for their academic futures and career goals. Thanks to the vision of Dr. Brittney Rhoton, the seamless execution of the HCS Food Services and Technology teams, and the support of community partners, the Future Pathways Expedition set a inspiring benchmark for student opportunity in Hawkins County.