This episode features a conversation about preparing K-12 students for career development and the future of work. The conversation is led by Cornelius Thomas, Co-Chair of NCDA’s Poetry and Art Contest, with Career Development Coordinators (CDCs) Irma Bodie and Kymmie Cartledge. This episode captures trends the panelists are seeing with employers, the resources they are using right now with students, and how they are helping students understand employer expectations and explore career options. The following questions guide the conversation:What are we seeing from candidates and employers as experts in the field?What are the comprehensive resources you are seeing that are adding value to benefit students?  How can we build students' understanding of the professional environment in the future? Are you finding that students need to learn more about the process of engaging in research?   How do you suggest we prepare students for the most sought-after industries of interest domestically and globally?The panel participants invite you to connect with them and their work:Cornelius Thomas, MBAhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cornelius-thomas-20512b79/corneliusthomas@johnston.k12.nc.usIrma Bode, M.Ed., NBPTSirmabode@johnston.k12.nc.usKymmie Cartledge, M.Ed., CCSP, GCDFhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kymmie-cartledge/ kcartledge@lexington1.netJohnston County (NC) Public SchoolsCareer Development Resource Site