Marin Public Works Fair Draws 100+ Students

SAN RAFAEL, CA — More than 100 Marin County high schoolers and community college students attended Wednesday's Public Works Fair, getting a hands-on look at a range of potential career paths in public service.

According to the county, students from San Rafael, Novato, Archie Williams, Madrone, Terra Linda, Marin Oaks and San Marin high schools joined students from the College of Marin to explore the full Department of Public Works repertoire.

"Our department's mission is to build a better community, but that doesn't just mean building infrastructure," said Rosemarie Gaglione, the DPW director. "It's an honor to connect with local students in a meaningful way, and we're proud to share our knowledge with the next generation."

The trip was part of Marin County's School to Career Partnership and gave students a chance to learn more about civil engineering, flood mitigation, emergency communications, waste management, road maintenance and other disciplines. Live demonstrations deployed excavators and let students get up close with land surveying equipment and other tools.

"It's important to show them the variety of things that encompass public works and let them experience some of that firsthand in a safe setting, so that they can have a better understanding of what it takes to keep our community safe and functioning year after year," Gaglione said. "If we sparked any desire to pursue a career in public service, then that's an even brighter future for our local government."

The fair was part of National Public Works Week, celebrating the DPW's work across 420 miles of road, 56 bridges and 52 facilities. The county also offers internships and a Career Explorer Youth Program to facilitate easier paths for students interested in joining the public workforce.