Exciting Career Exploration at Renner Elementary
On a sunny day in Kansas City, students at Renner Elementary eagerly gathered for “Careers on Wheels,” a special event aimed at introducing them to various professions that involve vehicles.
The career day featured an array of professionals, including a truck driver, firefighters, a race car driver, a karate instructor, a lawn care expert, and a UPS driver, all showcasing their vehicles and sharing insights about their jobs.
Dante Nettles, who has 23 years of driving experience and is a former Maryland State Trooper, attended with Riverside Transport Inc. He emphasized the importance of staying on a positive path. “Driving a truck is a rewarding career, but kids need to avoid drugs and trouble,” he advised.
Nettles warned students that legal troubles could hinder their job prospects in the future. He encouraged them to master map reading and excel in math, as these skills are essential for many careers. The children listened intently as he explained truck driving, even allowing them to tour his vehicle.
The children were particularly fascinated by Nettles’ truck, especially the TV inside. One girl exclaimed, “I loved his TV; it had cartoons!” A 9-year-old named Aubrey McDonald said, “It’s really cool. He basically lives in there. I liked the bed the most,” while 8-year-old Olivia Bowman remarked, “It’s so big. There are a lot of wheels on it.”
Next, the students met race car driver Rodney Phillips, who highlighted the importance of safe driving. Using his 2010 Monte Carlo as an example, he cautioned, “These cars can withstand impacts at high speeds, but regular cars aren’t built for that.” He shared his own journey into racing, having started in the fifth grade.
As they continued their exploration, the students visited a mobile karate truck, a tow truck, and a fire truck—each generating excitement. All presenters underscored the message of staying out of trouble as vital for future success. The day culminated with Phillips showcasing his race car in a thrilling display, leaving the kids cheering and buzzing with career aspirations.
