HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Thousands of students are expected to visit the Kansas State Fairgrounds this week as the ESSDACK Career Planning Expo returns for two days of exploring educational and career opportunities.
The event, billed as the largest college and career planning expo in Kansas, will take place Tuesday, Oct. 27, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Meadowlark and Sunflower buildings.
The expo connects students with representatives from two-year and four-year colleges, technical programs, apprenticeships, military branches and businesses, helping them explore potential career paths after high school.
Nearly 5,000 students attended the two-day event in 2025. Organizers anticipate more than 200 booth spaces representing various career opportunities at this year's expo.
In addition to providing students with information about education and training opportunities, the expo serves as a recruiting platform for colleges and employers. Businesses and public service organizations can connect with potential future employees while introducing students to workforce needs across Kansas.
Exhibitors are encouraged to provide hands-on demonstrations and interactive activities to help students better understand different professions.
For additional information, visit essdack.org/careerexpo or contact ESSDACK at 620-663-9566.