The Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) and Ponca City Public Schools (PCPS) are proud to announce the upcoming Internship & Career Fair, taking place on March 27th from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM in the East Gym at Ponca City High School. This event is designed to connect 10th-12th grade students with real-world career opportunities, providing valuable pathways for internships and entry-level positions that will shape the future workforce of Ponca City.
As part of the award-winning Wildcat Internship Program, this initiative represents a strong collaboration between local businesses, community leaders, and educators to give students hands-on learning experiences that go beyond the classroom. Over the past year, this program has provided more than 150 students with internships and career exposure through partnerships with over 70 local businesses and organizations. These experiences not only prepare students for success but also strengthen community bonds by encouraging local talent to stay, grow, and thrive in Ponca City.
In today’s competitive job market, classroom education alone is not enough to fully prepare students for the challenges of the workforce. Experiential learning—through internships, mentorships, and industry engagement—plays a crucial role in shaping students into confident, skilled professionals. The Internship & Career Fair allows students to explore career fields firsthand, develop meaningful connections with industry professionals, and gain insights into local opportunities they may not have previously considered.
This early exposure to careers helps students align their education with their future aspirations, making learning more relevant, engaging, and goal-oriented. For seniors, the fair presents a valuable chance to secure entry-level positions in industries that need fresh talent, while juniors and sophomores can explore potential internship placements that will give them a head start on their career journeys.
A thriving community is built on the strength of its workforce, and Ponca City is investing in its future by cultivating a pipeline of well-prepared, engaged, and motivated young professionals. By fostering strong partnerships between schools and local businesses, PCDA and PCPS are helping to ensure that Ponca City students see a future for themselves right here at home.
“Opportunities like this are key to building a strong local workforce,” said Liz Leaming, Ponca City Development Authority. “By connecting students with real career experiences, we’re not only preparing them for success—we’re also investing in Ponca City’s long-term economic growth. When students feel engaged with their community and see the value in staying local, we all benefit.”
Local businesses participating in the fair will have the opportunity to engage with the next generation of employees, share industry insights, and identify talented individuals who could become part of their future workforce. This connection between students and local employers reinforces the importance of giving back, fostering mentorships, and ensuring that Ponca City remains a place where young professionals can build meaningful, fulfilling careers.
Whether you’re a student looking for an internship, a senior ready to launch your career, or a business eager to meet motivated young talent, this event is a must-attend opportunity.
What: Internship & Career Fair
When: March 27, 2025, from 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Ponca City High School, East Gym
Who: 10th-12th grade students & local businesses
To sign up and learn more, visit www.goponca.com/workforce
