WACO, Texas — More than 1,700 high school students from across the Heart of Texas explored their futures at the 2026 YES! Expo on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at BASE at Extraco Events Center.
The YES! Expo brought together 131 local employers, colleges, and training providers to showcase career paths, industries, and educational opportunities available right here in the region. Students from more than 37 school districts participated in hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations throughout the day.
In its 18th year, the YES! Expo continued its mission to make career exploration fun, engaging, and accessible by allowing students to talk directly with professionals, try job-related skills, and learn what it takes to succeed in in-demand careers.
Regan Myers, a freshman at Lorena High School, said the YES! Expo offers a more engaging experience than what she typically encounters in the classroom.
Big Creek Materials, a platinum sponsor that also provided hard hats for the Reality Check booth, connected with students by sharing details about its work in construction and career opportunities.
“It helps them explore [career pathways] because they get hands-on training,” she said.
Throughout the event, students engaged with large-scale exhibitor booths, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive displays designed to spark curiosity and inspire career goals.
The 2026 YES! Expo was organized by Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas in partnership with McLennan Community College, Education Service Center Region 12, Texas State Technical College, and KWTX News 10.
About Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas:
Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas connects employers with talent and helps individuals build the skills needed for successful careers, strengthening the region’s workforce and economy.