Eighth-grade career expo

SCK LAUNCH Experience

Students step into the careers shaping South Central Kentucky through interactive exhibits, real conversations and hands-on discovery.

Explore the curriculum

What to expect

A career expo made to be experienced.

SCK LAUNCH Experience is an annual hands-on career expo for eighth-graders. Students explore many of the careers available in South Central Kentucky through interactive exhibits that showcase opportunities in our region’s high-growth, high-demand sectors.

Thank you to our partners

2026 Sponsors

Co-Title Sponsors

Western Kentucky University U.S. Bank

Presenting Sponsor

Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College

See it in action

Experience Videos

View photo gallery

Explore the Experience

Hands-on discovery

Meet local careers

A day at SCK LAUNCH

Students in action

For educators

Experience Curriculum

The SCK LAUNCH Experience Curriculum prepares students to identify their interests, explore high-demand careers, ask insightful questions and connect with local industry leaders. Students arrive ready to participate and leave with valuable direction for their future.

Teacher’s guide to all four lessons
01 Lesson 1 Explore Your Possible Careers Discover Local Careers & Demand

Essential questions

  • What is the Experience event?
  • What defines a career?
  • What are the key industry sectors in South Central Kentucky?
  • What are the high-demand and hard-to-find career opportunities in this region?
02 Lesson 2 Unlock Your Future Explore Your Interests

Essential questions

  • What are my personal interests?
  • How do my interests relate to career opportunities?
  • What key career-related vocabulary should I know?
  • What are the education requirements, salary ranges, and potential employers for careers I’m interested in?
03 Lesson 3 Gear Up for Career Success Get Ready for a Hands-On Experience

Essential questions

  • How can I prepare for the Experience event?
  • Why is this event more than just a field trip, and how can it help me become more career-focused?
  • What questions can I ask at the event to learn more about careers?
  • How can I earn cool swag at the event by engaging and asking questions?
04 Lesson 4 Building Your Career Path Reflecting and Planning Ahead

Essential questions

  • What insights did I gain from the Experience?
  • What steps can I take as an eighth-grader?
  • What Career and Technical Education pathways are offered at my high school to help me jumpstart my career?