PANTHER FUTURE CENTER NEWSLETTER

SMHS is participating in Oregon's College & Career Exploration Month this March, a new initiative from Oregon Goes To College. All high school students are welcome to participate in this exciting opportunity to explore their future paths.Early career exploration allows students to:

• explore new paths and identities with little risk
• stay engaged and satisfied with school
• build confidence
• gain essential life skills to make informed decisions for their future

Each week we will be promoting a different Next Step students can take after high school: college and trade schools, military service, and employment. We will also feature each of the 6 career pathways so students can be familiar with careers which align with their skills and talents. By the end of the month, our goal is for students to have a better understanding of potential career paths they can work towards. Information will be shared here, in the Panther Future Center Canvas page, and on the student news. There will be a culminating activity at the end of the month, so make sure to join in on the fun!

The Human Resources career cluster focuses on helping students prepare for careers that support employees and workplaces. Jobs in this area span many settings, including schools, hospitals, tech companies, government agencies, retail businesses, non-profits, and more. Human Resources (HR) includes careers such as HR specialists, recruiters, benefits coordinators, training and development specialists, payroll coordinators, diversity and inclusion specialists, labor relations specialists, and HR managers. In this cluster, you learn how to help hire and onboard new employees, how to support fair and safe working conditions, how to handle conflicts and concerns, how to manage employee records and benefits, and how to create a positive work culture where people can succeed.

How to Pursue Education and Training in Human Resources

Students interested in Human Resources need strong academic skills in communication (reading, writing, speaking, and listening), social studies (especially economics, government, and psychology), and mathematics (for payroll, budgeting, and benefits). It’s also helpful to take classes related to business, computer applications, leadership, or personal finance when possible.

Personal skills that are important for success in Human Resources include:

• Problem-solving and critical thinking – understanding workplace issues, policies, and possible solutions

• Communication and interpersonal skills – listening carefully, asking good questions, and explaining information clearly to employees and managers

• Teamwork – working closely with supervisors, coworkers, and different departments to support the organization’s goals

• Ethics and professionalism – respecting privacy and confidentiality, following laws and policies, and treating everyone fairly

• Empathy and patience – supporting people who may be frustrated, confused, or stressed about work-related issues

• Organization and time management – keeping track of applications, schedules, records, meetings, and deadlines

• Conflict resolution and diplomacy – staying calm and neutral, helping people work through disagreements and find solutions

Getting involved in business or leadership classes, joining clubs like DECA, FBLA, or student council, helping organize school events, or exploring job shadows or internships in offices or HR departments can all help you prepare for a future in the Human Resources career cluster.

The Industrial and Engineering Systems career cluster focuses on helping students prepare for careers that design, build, maintain, and improve the systems and technologies we use every day. Jobs in this area span many settings, including manufacturing plants, construction sites, transportation companies, engineering firms, utilities, warehouses, and technology and robotics facilities. Industrial and Engineering Systems includes careers such as industrial engineers, mechanical technicians, maintenance technicians, machinists, drafters/CAD technicians, quality control inspectors, logistics and supply chain specialists, robotics technicians, and operations managers. In this cluster, you learn how machines and systems work, how products are designed and made, how to read blueprints and technical drawings, how to use tools and technology safely, and how to make processes faster, safer, and more efficient.

How to Pursue Education and Training in Industrial and Engineering Systems

Students interested in Industrial and Engineering Systems need strong academic skills in mathematics (especially algebra, geometry, and sometimes trigonometry), science (physics and physical science), and technology. It’s also helpful to take classes related to engineering, robotics, drafting/CAD, manufacturing, construction, or computer science when possible.

Personal skills that are important for success in Industrial and Engineering Systems include:

• Problem-solving and critical thinking – diagnosing issues with machines or systems and finding practical solutions

• Mechanical and technical aptitude – understanding how parts fit and work together, and feeling comfortable with tools and equipment

• Attention to detail – carefully following measurements, instructions, safety rules, and quality standards

• Teamwork – working with engineers, technicians, operators, and supervisors to complete projects and keep systems running

• Safety awareness and responsibility – recognizing hazards, using protective gear, and following safety procedures at all times

• Organization and time management – planning work, tracking materials, and meeting production or project deadlines

• Adaptability – learning new technologies, tools, and software as industries and equipment change

Getting involved in classes like engineering, robotics, manufacturing, construction trades, or technology education; joining clubs like robotics, Technology Student Association (TSA), or SkillsUSA; participating in project-based learning or competitions; or exploring job shadows, apprenticeships, or internships with local manufacturers, construction companies, or engineering firms can all help you prepare for a future in the Industrial and Engineering Systems career cluster.

Join us for this free skills and aptitude assessment on March 30 from 11:00am-2:00pm. This test can be beneficial to anyone wanting to explore career paths, not just students interested in pursuing a military pathway. Students will need to provide their own transportation as this is a non-school day. Sign up below to receive more information and secure your spot. We only have 50 seats, so register soon! This assessment is open to 10th, 11th and 12th grade students. Registration closes Wednesday, March 18.

The Army recruiters will be available to meet with students on Thursday during lunch. This is the perfect time to get your questions answered about how the Army can assist you with your plans after high school!

A specialist from RCC will be here on Friday, April 3 during 6th period to share information about all of their apprenticeship programs. Students will hear what steps they can take now to prepare for this high-demand, high-wage career path. This is open to all grades!

The Southern Oregon University SOSA Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for high school students who are ready to take their education to the next level at SOU. Designed to recognize your hard work, leadership, and involvement, the SOSA Scholarship helps make college more affordable so you can focus on your goals instead of worrying about costs. Whether you’re passionate about the arts, sciences, technology, or exploring multiple interests, this scholarship can support your path at a vibrant, student-centered campus in Ashland, Oregon. If you’re motivated, engaged in your school or community, and excited about your future, the SOSA Scholarship could be the boost you need to turn your college dreams into reality.

With one application, you can apply for dozens of scholarships!

Rogue Credit Union offers several scholarships every year for graduating high school seniors, adults seeking to advance their careers with a degree, and students going into a vocation. Rogue scholarships are awarded based on academics, school involvement, community involvement and financial need. There are multiple scholarship opportunities, including scholarships for students studying mathematics, science or education, for students pursuing a vocational degree, for students whose parent or grandparent works for RCU, for students who are members of RCU, and more.

The purpose of this scholarship is to support and promote vocational/technical educational opportunities for women.

The student must be qualified for admission to an accredited vocational/technical institution, or community college: An Oregon school is preferred but not required. The scholarship will be awarded on the basis of determination, leadership, scholarship (2.5 average or higher), financial need, consistent attendance, community activities, work experience, and classes relevant in future educational career goals.

We often pick from women going to RCC for certificate programs or an AA, or technical degrees at OIT (or other equivalent educational facilities). We have in the past selected women interested in EMT/paramedic, medical tech, beauty school, auto mechanics, therapy/personal training, pre-school education, and dental assisting.

Application-see the PFC for a paper or digital application. Applications must be emailed to stacy.carle@medford.k12.or.us by 4pm on Monday, April 7.

If you missed the ECMC's Paying for College webinar, they have shared the link with us so you can use it as a financial aid resource. If you have any questions about the topics covered, please let us know!

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has undergone significant changes, and is now open for the 2026-27 school year (this is the correct form for our current seniors). This form allows students to see if they qualify for federal aid, federal loans, and aid from the state of Oregon. The Oregon Promise grant (free money for community colleges) also requires it.

Students and their contributors (see links below) need to create an FSA ID (username and password). If a parent already has an FSA ID, they do not need to create a new one.

Below are some helpful videos which explain the process and how to prepare to complete this important form. The PFC staff is happy to help students and families with this process.

The ORSAA is the alternative to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for undocumented students in Oregon, including students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. The ORSAA gives students access to state grants and scholarships.

By submitting the ORSAA - early, and each year you attend college - you can gain access to financial aid through the state of Oregon such as the Oregon Opportunity Grant, Oregon Promise Grant*, and OSAC Scholarships*. You must meet eligibility criteria for each program. Financial aid helps you meet the costs of attending college. * You must complete additional applications for these opportunities by the deadline.

We are happy to help students complete this important financial aid document-please come see us in the Panther Future Center!

Would you like a kind, caring adult to help you with all of your college, scholarship and financial aid applications? How about working with someone who will text and remind you of all of the important deadlines and due dates? Then join Aspire and get your very own mentor! Pop into the PFC to get a permission slip and get started. Email stacy.carle@medford.k12.or.us with any questions.

TRiO is accepting applications for students in grades 9-11! TRIO is a great program to help you with your next step after high school. TRiO can help with college, career and academics. We offer free tutoring, field trips and so much more! If you are a First Generation College student and would like another person in your corner, scan the QR code and fill out the app today.

Questions about TRiO? Email Angel.garcia@medford.k12.or.us.

Make sure to accept your invitation to the PFC Canvas page and stay up to date on all the important information!

Our PFC website is full of vital information to help you get connected to college and career resources. Whether you are interested in college, a trade, the military, or the workforce, you will find what you need to help you get started!