Bradford White Water Heaters, an industry-leading manufacturer of water heaters, boilers, and storage tanks, has announced its participation in the fourth annual Barry County Career Fest, an all-day career exploration event designed to connect local students with future job opportunities across the region.

The Barry County Career Fest will take place Tuesday, Februaru 17, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Barry County Fair Grounds in Hastings, Michigan. Hosted by the Barry County Chamber & Economic Alliance, the event brings together high school-aged students from public and private schools, as well as homeschoolers, with area employers and post-secondary educational institutions to explore potential career pathways available within the area.

Throughout the day, students will be exposed to a wide range of career fields, including business management, marketing, finance, accounting, technology, engineering, manufacturing, industrial technology, construction, health and human services, medical professions, natural resources, agriculture, horticulture, culinary arts, hospitality, law enforcement, criminal justice, insurance, and mechanics.

The event will be open to the public for any adults looking for a potential career change from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

As part of its involvement, Bradford White is sponsoring a featured presentation by Kate Cinnamo, executive director of Explore The Trades. This is a national organization dedicated to raising awareness and interest in skilled trade careers, including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC professions.

“We value every opportunity to introduce students to the meaningful, in-demand careers that keep our communities running,” said Neal Heyman, Senior Director of Marketing at Bradford White. “Through our sponsorship of this event and our

partnership with Explore The Trades

, we’re helping students see vocations in the skilled trades not just as viable, but as valuable.”

With a manufacturing facility in nearby Middleville, Bradford White is itself a major Barry County employer. Their participation in the event also aligns with the company’s

Industry Forward

® program, an initiative focused on increasing public understanding of the essential role the plumbing and HVAC industry plays in public health, safety, and economic growth. Through Industry Forward®, Bradford White actively

supports education

, workforce development, and advocacy efforts that strengthen the future of the trades.

For more information about the Barry County Career Fest, visit

business.mibarry.com/events/details/2026-barry-county-career-fest-5317

.

Source:

Bradford White Water Heaters