(June 6, 2025) Graduating seniors at Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School Commencement Academy got a head start on their futures at Union Career Day, held Friday, June 6. The event brought together a range of labor unions, public agencies, and training centers to connect students with opportunities in skilled trades, public service, and beyond.
Participating organizations included Iron Workers Local Union 33, UA Local 13 Plumbers, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and many more. Students had the opportunity to speak directly with representatives, explore different trades, and learn how to take the first steps toward a successful career. Some even walked away with job interviews lined up.
“The trend back into vocational, blue-collar employment has started to shift,” said Barry Burke, a Special Education teacher at Wilson who helped organize the event. “These unions have told us they need good employees. They have members retiring, and billions of dollars of work is coming into the Greater Rochester area in the next five years, and they need people to fill those positions.”
In the final hour, the event focused exclusively on seniors, giving them space to ask specific questions and make professional connections. “I want them graduating on a Monday night and being in someone’s office the next morning, filling out the appropriate paperwork to get to work,” Burke added.
By exposing students to real-world career options and opening doors to immediate employment, Wilson is helping its graduates leave prepared, confident, and ready to build a future.
