Junior Achievement Career Speaker Series inspires Hamilton students

Sixth-graders at Hamilton School received an inside look at a variety of career paths when the school hosted Junior Achievement’s Career Speaker Series.

Coordinated by school counselor Toni Ann Trombetta and Caroline Tzelios, senior programs manager for Junior Achievement, the June 5 event connected students with professionals from several fields who shared their career journeys, educational backgrounds and workplace experiences.

The Career Speaker Series is designed to help students explore future possibilities by introducing them to professionals who serve as subject matter experts, mentors and role models. Through discussions about their careers, speakers help students better understand the skills, education and experiences needed to succeed in different professions.

This year’s panel featured three accomplished professionals.

• John Sprague, a principal engineer at Verizon in Westchester, discussed his work in the telecommunications industry and shared how his degree in mechanical engineering from Binghamton University helped shape his career. He provided students with insight into engineering careers and the importance of problem-solving and innovation.
• Michael Malone, director of professional development at the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors, spoke about professional growth, leadership and the value of pursuing educational opportunities. Mr. Malone also serves as a director and coach at Fortuna Admissions, where he helps students navigate the college admissions process.
• Larry Berger, a retired director from the Bank of Nova Scotia with more than 30 years of experience in finance, shared lessons from his extensive career. A longtime Junior Achievement volunteer, Mr. Berger also works with the Destination College program at Mount Vernon High School, continuing his commitment to mentoring and supporting students.

Throughout the session, students had the opportunity to learn directly from the speakers’ experiences, ask questions and gain real-world perspectives on a variety of professions. The program encouraged students to begin thinking about their future goals while highlighting the many career opportunities available to them.