Austin Youth Career Fest Empowers 3,000 Students with Career Insights and Hands-On Experiences
The Palmer Events Center buzzed with energy on January 28 as more than 3,000 high school students and educators from across Central Texas gathered for the 13th Annual Youth Career Fest, a dynamic career exploration event hosted by Austin Economic Development and the Austin Youth Council.
Showcasing the strength of Austin’s ongoing commitment to youth workforce development, the fest brought together 126 employers, educators, and community organizations, offering students a glimpse into the future of work across industries like healthcare, construction, tech, skilled trades, public service, creative arts, and entrepreneurship.
At the heart of the event was a shared goal: help young people discover possibilities, build confidence, and connect with real-world opportunities. For many students, the Youth Career Fest was a rare chance to interact directly with professionals, try hands-on activities, and ask meaningful questions about careers that shape the city’s economic landscape.
“This event is about exposure and possibility,” said Anthony Segura, Deputy Director of Austin Economic Development. “When young people can see the many paths available to them and meet the people doing this work every day, it changes how they think about their future. The Youth Career Fest helps students connect their interests to real opportunities right here in Austin.”
The event also featured a press conference with City and County leaders, reinforcing the City of Austin’s dedication to creating a family-friendly city and investing in structures that support children and families through every major policy decision.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Building Austin’s Workforce, One Student at a Time
The Youth Career Fest has grown into one of the largest career exploration events in the region since it began in 2013. Organized by the Austin Youth Council—a group of high school students who represent youth voices in city government—the annual event continues to reflect the city’s vision of cultivating informed, productive, and civically engaged citizens.
“The energy in the room today was incredible,” Segura added. “Students left with new ideas, new connections, and a clearer sense of what is possible for their future.”
Students explored career booths, participated in live demonstrations, and experienced hands-on learning activities—from practicing medical techniques to experimenting with virtual reality tools used in engineering and design.
A Broader Mission: Youth Empowerment Through Workforce Readiness
The City of Austin’s Economic Development Department plays a critical role in powering events like this. As a key driver of equitable and sustainable economic growth, the department works to support small businesses, attract high-quality jobs, and build inclusive partnerships that uplift all residents. Its workforce initiatives focus on future-ready industries, supporting youth access to job training, career pathways, and real-world experience.
The department’s mission is rooted in the belief that a strong economy starts with a prepared and inspired workforce. Events like Youth Career Fest are instrumental in helping students envision a thriving future in Austin’s evolving economy.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Community Partnerships Pave the Way
The success of the Youth Career Fest would not be possible without collaboration. Schools, local employers, nonprofits, and volunteers come together each year to provide a platform where young people can grow, dream, and plan.
“The Youth Career Fest is a powerful example of what we can achieve together,” said Segura. “It’s about more than one day—it’s about planting seeds that help young people grow into tomorrow’s leaders.”
As Austin continues to evolve as a vibrant and opportunity-rich city, the Youth Career Fest remains a testament to the power of community, vision, and connection.
For more information on youth-focused programs, upcoming career events, and how to get involved, visit austintexas.gov/kids.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.