Whitney Point eighth graders recently stepped outside the classroom and into their futures during a visit to SUNY Broome’s SPARK Career Exploration Expo on January 21, 2026.
Despite frigid winter temperatures, students joined a record-breaking crowd of more than 2,300 eighth graders from across the region for the immersive, hands-on event. Now in its fifth year, SPARK is designed to introduce middle school students to a wide variety of career paths and the educational opportunities available right here in the Greater Binghamton area.
Throughout the day, Whitney Point students explored careers spanning health care, culinary arts, construction, television production, engineering, information technology, and more. The experience went well beyond observation, offering students the chance to actively participate in activities led by SUNY Broome faculty and industry professionals.
Students tried their hand at 3D printing, practiced critical life-saving skills, learned the art of flower arranging and even experienced what it’s like to be “on the job” in various careers through virtual reality simulations. Each activity was paired with information sessions that highlighted what professionals in each field do day-to-day, the education required and potential career pathways.
SPARK reflects the belief that career exploration should begin early, helping students connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities and inspiring them to think about what comes next. The event is made possible through a collaborative partnership between SUNY Broome, the Greater Binghamton Education Outreach Program (GBEOP), Broome-Tioga BOCES and the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce, all working together to support and grow the region’s future workforce.
For Whitney Point students, the day offered a glimpse into the many possibilities ahead, planting seeds of curiosity, ambition and confidence as they continue their educational journey.
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