Over 500 Stanislaus County high school students will converge on the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds in Turlock on Thursday, March 17, 2022, for the 36th Annual Occupational Olympics and Career Exposition (OOCE). The event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Occupational Olympics and Career Exposition help to promote academic and occupational understanding in various career areas. The event also recognizes high school students who excel in their mastery of skills. The Stanislaus County Office of Education (SCOE), Stanislaus Partners in Education (SPIE), Stanislaus County Fair, Modesto Junior College, local business and industry, and school districts countywide sponsor the event.

Approximately 50 vendors representing business/industry are participating and students will have the opportunity to speak to them regarding careers and college.

During the exposition, representatives from local business and industry will judge students in 15 competitive events including agricultural engineering/construction, agricultural technology, animal husbandry, basic life support CPR/first aid, criminal justice, culinary, floriculture, job seeking skills, medical occupations, itsco drag racing, portfolio review, small engine technology, robotics, video game design, and welding.

Students will be rated on knowledge of their field of interest, ability to perform tasks using appropriate tools, and employability skills. Plaques are awarded to the top three participants in each event, and the top eight finalists receive ribbons. One small and one large school will be awarded a Sweepstakes Award. Participating high schools include Beyer, Central Valley, Ceres, Davis, Downey, Elliot Alternative Education, Enochs, Hughson, Johansen, Modesto, Orestimba, Oakdale, Patterson, Riverbank, Stanislaus Military Academy, Valley College, Pitman, Turlock, and Waterford.