Hay River (Oct 25/04) - About 150 South Slave area high school students now have a better idea about some of the career choices available to them.

Grade 8 and 9 students from Hay River, Fort Resolution and the Hay River Reserve each sampled up to three jobs on Oct. 5.

The Waking Opportunities Within Youth Career Conference saw the students head off to various worksites around Hay River.

Garry Power of Hay River polished ATVs and learned how to remove and install tires.

"And I learned how to be a barber," he said of his time at Henry's Barber Shop.

Power wants to be a heavy equipment operator.

Erica Lafferty of Fort Resolution said the workshops made her think about other occupations, although she still plans to become a hairdresser.

James Buckley of Hay River, who wants to be a mechanic or carpenter, tried his hand at music production at a recording studio.

All three agreed the workshops were educational and fun.

The conference was presented by the Hay River Career Development Centre.

Co-ordinator Ken Latour said about 60 worksites participated, including government departments, businesses, the Coast Guard, Northern Transportation Company Ltd. (NTCL) and the hospital.

"I heard a lot of positive feedback from students, teachers and volunteers," Latour said.

The annual conference alternates between Hay River and Fort Smith.