SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The South Bend Community School Corporation announced the first-ever GEAR UP (IGNITE) Career Expo will be held on from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on May 2 at the Saint Joseph County 4-H Fairgrounds.

Organizers say the full-day event is designed to give eighth and ninth-grade students a chance to experience various career opportunities and connect with professionals from universities, community organizations, and businesses.

The event will have 60 to 75 vendors providing engaging and interactive activities for students.

"The primary goal of the event is to inform students about potential job opportunities and help them discover and explore their interests," said SJCSC Assistant Director of Communications Blair Yankey. "Many industry partners from diverse fields, such as the fire and police departments, tradespeople, and the financial sector, will showcase their work and explain the skills required to excel in their fields."

The event is free and open to all eighth and ninth-grade students from South Bend Schools.

"We are excited to organize this Career Expo for our South Bend students," said Assistant Superintendent of SJCSC Chad Addie. "This is an opportunity for them to explore and discover their interests and passions while learning from and connecting with industry professionals who can help guide them towards their desired career paths."