Horn Lake High School raised the bar this week with a high-impact Trades Day designed to give our College & Career Readiness and JROTC students a firsthand look at high-demand skilled pathways. This event delivered practical, real-world learning aligned to the district’s workforce readiness agenda and showcased strong industry partnerships that continue to move the needle for our students.
Students engaged in hands-on rotations with a broad slate of regional employers:
*Mid-South Independent Electrical Contractors demonstrated core electrical principles and let students test how electricity flows.
*Canadian National Railroad walked students through measuring a wheel flange and changing a brake shoe—critical rail operations competencies.
*Tri-State Utility Contractors provided locating equipment used in underground directional drilling, giving students a window into modern utility fieldwork.
*Mississippi Rural Water Association facilitated a water-filtration activity using cotton balls, sand, and rocks, reinforcing foundational environmental systems concepts.
*Southeastern Carpenters Local 1554 brought a welding simulator, allowing students to experience a controlled introduction to welding.
*United Association of Plumbers Local 17 highlighted core plumbing skills and industry expectations.
*Hyosung HICO demonstrated how high-capacity electrical transformers support the power needs of supercomputing.
This initiative was strategically coordinated by Career Coaches Robin Henessee and Pat Brady, whose leadership ensured seamless execution and high-value engagement for students.
DeSoto County Schools remains committed to expanding career-aligned experiences that prepare students for both college and the modern workforce.
