District 202 is hosting its inaugural Tech and Trades Fair next month, which is open to students and the public.
The event is from 6 to 8 p.m., October 8, 2025, in the main gymnasium at Plainfield High School-Central Campus, 24120 W. Fort Beggs Drive.
The fair will feature more than 25 vendors representing trade schools, union halls, and a variety of employers.
A local union president will also speak on navigating the application process and how to successfully enter the trades.
The idea for the fair came from the district’s Work-Based Learning Liaisons at each high school: Julie Bortoli, from Plainfield High School-Central Campus, Nick Rayola from Plainfield South High School, Rebecca Voss from Plainfield North High School, and Rich Gatz at Plainfield East High School.
The liaisons also collaborated with the Workforce Center of Will County on the event.
This is the first career fair to focus on technical and skilled trades, said Bortoli.
“This event marks a significant step forward for our district, as we recognize the growing importance of these careers,” she said.
Jobs in the skilled trades are growing fast, Bortoli said.
“These careers offer a secure and specialized future, with top roles for electricians, HVAC technicians, welders, and plumbers leading the way.”