February 27, 2026 — More than 1,400 Cobb middle and high schoolers stepped onto a military base with one purpose — to explore their futures. This year, Cobb Future Fest reached new heights at the local headquarters of the Georgia Army National Guard. The unique setting gave students an up-close look at career pathways in aviation, public safety, engineering, health care, entrepreneurship and more — highlighting how Cobb Schools provides hands-on experiences to deepen learning.
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Future Fest is not a typical career fair. It is a career exploration experience designed specifically for students in grades 6-12. Instead of simply collecting brochures, students test, build, touch, ask questions, and imagine what comes next.
A New Location, A New Perspective
The partnership with the Georgia Army National Guard opened doors as students toured facilities, met service members, and stood in front of Black Hawk helicopters housed on the base. For many, it was their first time seeing military aviation equipment up close.
More than 80 vendors and nearly 100 exhibitors filled the space, representing high-demand industries across Cobb County and neighboring communities. Local businesses, technical programs, public safety departments, and postsecondary institutions shared interactive demonstrations designed to spark curiosity. And that curiosity was everywhere.
Students practiced “Stop the Bleed” training with Wellstar health professionals. They explored plumbing systems with Superior Plumbing. They learned about entrepreneurship through Cobb County Business Bootcamp. They interacted with computer science activities, engineering challenges, and student-led demonstrations from Cobb High School pathway programs. The message was clear: learning is active.
Robotics in Action
Wheeler High School juniors Nathan Nguyen and Hyunsu Park spent the day demonstrating their robot and answering questions from younger students.
“We’re here to demo the robot, show off what it can do, and hopefully get people inspired to join FIRST Robotics,” Nathan shared.
The questions came quickly: How did you build it? How much did it cost? How can I join? For these students, robotics is more than competition. It is preparation. Team members gain experience in CAD design, programming, mechanical engineering, parametric modeling, and teamwork. They work alongside mentors and upperclassmen, using real tools to solve real problems.
Hyunsu hopes to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology to study biomedical engineering or biotechnology. He credits Cobb’s hands-on STEM programs and robotics experience for preparing him.
“In Cobb, we engage in our learning,” he explained. “We actually have fun while we’re learning. It’s hands-on. It prepares us for top schools because we learn leadership, communication, and teamwork.”
Events like Future Fest help younger students see that pathway early.
“You walk around, you see something cool, and you think, ‘I want to do that,’” Nathan said. “Then you can ask the people doing it how to get there.”
Pathways That Lead to Careers
Future Fest also highlights Cobb’s strong work-based learning and apprenticeship programs. Students enrolled in career pathways do not just study theory.
They gain credentials, industry certifications, and in some cases, direct job offers. For example, Cobb Fire interns demonstrated skills they have learned through the district’s partnership with the Cobb Fire Department. After completing the program and passing the required exams, some students may receive job offers immediately after graduation.
Cobb Schools works closely with local partners, including the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, to identify high-demand industries in Georgia and align pathway programs with real workforce needs. The goal is simple: to grow our own talent and create opportunities for students right here in Cobb County. Many of the soldiers hosting the event with the Georgia Army National Guard are Cobb graduates.
Their presence underscored the importance of strong community partnerships. When students see professionals who live and serve in their own neighborhoods, possibilities feel closer.
Why Middle School Matters
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One of the most powerful aspects of Future Fest is the age range. Middle school students attend alongside high schoolers, giving them an early look at what is possible. It is never too early to explore. By the time students enter high school, they can make informed decisions about pathway programs, magnet options, dual enrollment, apprenticeships, or service opportunities.
Early exposure builds confidence, and confidence fuels achievement. Cobb Future Fest continues to grow each year because it reflects the district’s commitment to preparing every student for life after graduation, whether that path leads to college, career, military service, or entrepreneurship.
