In celebration of National STEM Day on Nov. 8, a group of high school juniors and seniors visited Core Laboratories to explore career opportunities in the oil and gas industry.

The field trip gave students a firsthand look at the wide range of career paths within the sector, from geology and engineering to data science and lab technology.

Core Laboratories team members shared their personal career journeys, emphasizing the variety of paths that led them to their current roles. Many staff members did not follow a traditional four-year college route immediately after high school, which aligns with Spring Branch ISD’s T-2-4 vision: every SBISD graduate will attain a technical certificate, military training, or a two-year or four-year degree. 

Students discovered that fulfilling STEM careers are available through many different educational pathways, including some that do not require a four-year degree.

The students participated in demonstrations from various Core Laboratories units, gaining hands-on experience and observing science and technology in action. Highlights of the day included building their own walking robots, sparking curiosity and providing a deeper understanding of how STEM principles are applied in real-world settings.

For these juniors and seniors, the field trip was more than just a day out of the classroom—it offered a glimpse into potential career paths and underscored the idea that there are multiple routes to success.

View photos from this event here.