CHARLESTON, S.C. –
CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The fourth annual Federal Executive Association of the Greater Charleston area hosted the FEA Government Expo May 11, 2018, at Liberty Square, Charleston, S.C.
The FEA Government Expo provided various federal and state agencies with a platform to educate the public about the many ways the government serves the community.
“We came to learn and interact with everyone here,” said Jaida Murray, Charleston Charter School for Math and Science student. “We were able to talk to several recruiters and different career specialists to consider future job options.”
It was a first-time experience for many attending the event.
“My team and I are really enjoying our first time here,” said Staff Sgt. Harry Sayan Diaz, 628th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management member. “We love any chance we get to show our capabilities to the public and to also teach others what JB Charleston does.”
This year, several state agencies were added to the expo to showcase the services provided by the state. In addition to the added state agencies, approximately 25 federal agencies and military organizations set up displays highlighting their missions, programs and initiatives. Agencies such as military recruiters, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, Customs and Border Protection, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic and more attended the expo.
“I’m here with the rest of the federal and state agencies basically showcasing our priorities and educating individuals about our area of expertise,” said Carol Lampkin-harris, JB Charleston drug testing program administrative manager. “The crowd reaction to the expo was amazing. Everyone was so intrigued and genuinely seemed happy with it. It’s been a very fulfilling and enlightening experience and I’m already looking forward to the next one.”
The FEA Government Expo is a public outreach opportunity which attracts hundreds of attendees each year, including local schools.
“I think this was a really cool thing to be a part of,” said Murray. “Especially for the younger kids. They were able to come out and actually learn something to benefit their future. I personally want to be a police officer when I grow up, so I’m grateful for the opportunities my classmates and I had here.”