Four hundred San Diego Unified School District students enrolled in Career, College and Technical Education (CCTE) programs gathered at Petco Park for a day of hands-on learning and career exploration. The event, hosted in partnership with the San Diego Padres, connects students with professionals across multiple industries to inspire and prepare them for success after high school.
Throughout the day, students meet representatives from various departments within the Padres organization — from hospitality and food services to engineering, marketing, and entertainment — learning how their classroom experiences align with real-world careers.
“This partnership is a powerful example of how education and industry can come together to open doors for our students,” said Dr. Fabi Bagula, Superintendent of San Diego Unified School District. “At San Diego Unified, we are committed to helping every student discover their unique path — whether that’s college, a trade, the military, or entrepreneurship. We are deeply grateful to the San Diego Padres for showing our students what’s possible right here in their own city.”
The CCTE program provides students with real-world experiences that prepare them for both college and career success. Students participating in this event represent pathways including Culinary Arts, Engineering, Business and Finance, Health Sciences, Information Technology, Marketing, and the Arts. Each industry group from the Padres will share how their work connects to these fields and what skills students need to thrive in their professions.
“Events like this are what make CCTE so meaningful,” said Ricardo Cooke, Director of Career, College and Technical Education. “Our students get to see firsthand how their learning connects to the real world — and to meet professionals who once stood where they stand now. The Padres have created an unforgettable experience at Petco Park that empowers our students to dream bigger and plan smarter for their futures.”
“We are excited to welcome so many bright, motivated students to Petco Park,” said Padres CEO Erik Greupner. “By opening our ballpark and connecting students with members of the Padres organization, we hope to inspire the next generation of students and show them how the skills they are learning today can lead to rewarding careers in sports and beyond.”