Union, Oregon- On September 30, nearly 300 students from across Eastern Oregon gathered at Eastern Oregon Livestock Show Grounds for the second annual Trade Talks & Career Walks, a hands-on career and technical education (CTE) event connecting students with local employers and training programs.

Of the 309 students who registered, approximately 275 attended. They came from all Union County schools, all Wallowa County schools, Pine Eagle, and Baker. Students met with 40 vendors, including local business partners and training programs, to explore career pathways available right here in the region.

The event is the brainchild of Union County Commissioner Jake Seavert, who brought together a planning team of partners from Eastern Oregon Workforce Board, Malheur ESD, OSU Extension, and Caitlin Russel- InterMountain ESD CTE Coordinator.