Page 10 - March April 2026 Vol 43 No 7

CITY OF KNOXVILLE PUBLIC SERVICES By Quineka Moten
Connecting Classrooms to Careers

The City of Knoxville Public Service Students rotated through multiple students to safely use tools and observe
Department is proud to partner with the divisions, gaining insight into the a plumbing demonstration, offering
865 Academies, a Knox County Schools interconnected nature of public a behind-the-scenes look at the work
career pathway program that connects service careers. The Facilities team required to maintain public buildings
high school students to industry-aligned led interactive activities that allowed and infrastructure.
learning, workforce development, and
postsecondary opportunities. Together,
this partnership focuses on outreach
that introduces students to real-world
careers and skill sets that support public
infrastructure and community well-
being.
Building Awareness Early: Elementary
School Engagement
Outreach begins at the elementary
level, where early exposure can spark
curiosity and long-term interest.
Through initiatives such as Touch-
a-Truck, Public Service teams bring
vehicles, equipment, and operators
directly to school campuses—often
during career fairs or special events.
Students have an opportunity to see
trucks up close, engage with operators,
and learn how Public Works supports
safety, mobility, and quality of life in their
neighborhoods. These age-appropriate
experiences help students connect what
they learn in the classroom to the world
around them.
Expanding Engagement: Middle
School Outreach
At the middle school level, outreach
becomes more interactive and skills
focused. During career fairs and school
visits, students participate in hands-on
demonstrations and discussions that
highlight how mathematics, problem-
solving, and teamwork are applied in
Public Works careers. This approach
helps students better understand
how academic concepts translate into
practical, real-world applications.
Highlighting Career Pathways: High
School and the 865 Academies
The centerpiece of the department’s
outreach efforts is its engagement with
high school students through the 865
Academies. Last semester, the Public
Service Department welcomed over 50
students from South Doyle High School
to the Public Works complex for an
immersive, on-site learning experience.
10 TPW March/April 2026