Connecting Middle School and High School students with local manufacturers and business professionals to familiarize them with potential careers and opportunities throughout Southwest Michigan.

The South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts 4th Annual

8^th Grade Career Field Trip

March 16, 2026- The South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 4th Annual 8th Grade Career Field Trip for students from Baseline Middle School. This immersive event provided students with a unique opportunity to explore local career paths and engage with industry professionals.

This immersive experience connected students directly with area employers, offering a behind-the-scenes look at a variety of industries right here in the South Haven community. Students toured local manufacturers Vibracoustic, Shurco, and FoodTools, along with South Haven Area Emergency Services, gaining valuable insight into day-to-day operations. Throughout the visits, students heard directly from professionals about their roles, career paths, and the skills needed to succeed in each field helping bring future opportunities into clearer focus.

The experience comes at an important time for 8th grade students as they begin making decisions about their high school schedules and thinking more intentionally about their futures. Many students are also exploring programs like those offered through the Van Buren Tech Center as they consider potential career pathways.

The 8th Grade Career Field Trip is part of the Chamber’s Youth Connections Program, which focuses on building meaningful connections between students and the local business community. By introducing young people to career pathways early on, the program helps inspire future goals while supporting the long-term vitality of South Haven’s workforce.

Through initiatives like the 8th Grade Career Field Trip, the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce continues its commitment to strengthening the connection between education and industry, investing in students today to support a thriving community tomorrow.

South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts High School Job Fair

Connecting Students and Local Businesses

The South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its High School Job Fair, bringing local students and businesses together for a meaningful opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.

The event featured a speed interview format, giving students the chance to meet with multiple businesses in a supportive, structured setting. This provided real-world interview experience while allowing employers to connect with motivated young candidates just in time for the busy summer season.

As part of the Chamber’s Youth Connection initiative, the Job Fair introduces students to career opportunities in the community while helping local businesses engage with future talent. In preparation, Chamber Director Brandy Key and Assistant Director Olivia Thompson visited the high school to guide students through job applications, interview preparation, and professional confidence-building. For many students, this was their first interview experience.

“We wanted students to feel prepared and supported,” said Brandy Key, Executive Director of the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce. “Seeing their confidence grow and connecting them with local businesses is incredibly rewarding, a win for everyone involved.”

The Job Fair highlights the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and building connections between students and local businesses. Through programs like the High School Job Fair and 8^th Grade Career Field Trip, the Chamber continues to create opportunities for growth, learning, and community engagement in South Haven.