A hands-on exploration of water-linked education and career pathways

Launched in 2024, this annual event, co-organized with U-M’s Detroit River Story Lab, showcases water-related educational and career opportunities to students and young adults in the Metro Detroit region. Students hear from experts in a wide variety of environmental and other water-related fields on how to build a successful and rewarding career, whether they are interested in science, policy, cutting edge research, or hands-on maritime fieldwork.

• Date & Time: Friday, April 10, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, 130 E. Atwater (on the Riverwalk)
• Who should attend: Metro-Detroit youth (ages 15–25), plus teachers and families
• Lunch: Lunch is provided for registered youth participants.

What is the Detroit River Youth Career Expo?

The Detroit River Youth Career Expo is an interactive event designed to help young people explore real-world careers and educational pathways connected to the water, the riverfront, and the regional economy. Meet employers and recruiters, learn about training programs, and connect with universities and community partners—all in one place.

Program Highlights

At the Expo, you can:

• Meet recruiters
• Learn about training programs
• Tour docked working vessels and hear from their crews
• Talk with university faculty about cutting-edge research
• Meet local employers and learn about good-paying jobs

Career Sectors Represented

You’ll have opportunities to explore pathways in:

• Maritime
• STEM
• Health & Education
• Culture & Communication

Event Sponsors:

• When: Friday, April 10, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Where: Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, 130 E. Atwater, Detroit, MI (on the Riverwalk)
• Who: Metro-Detroit youth (15–25) and their teachers and families
• Lunch: Provided for registered youth participants

Spots may be limited, register in advance.