Parkland Showcases Mobile Unit, Career Room at Open House

Both spaces explore a variety of career opportunities and educational pathways

Career and Community Engagement at Parkland College showcased the Cobra Pathfinder and new career exploration room during an open house last week.

The 36-foot-long Cobra Pathfinder, the college’s new mobile education unit, and on-campus career exploration room feature portable, interactive carts with hands-on, career-focused activities. Each one connects to a Parkland-offered program, including agriculture, automotive, health professions, and welding, among others.

"If these new spaces can inspire students as young as 12 to get excited about a field of study and keep them engaged, it truly opens up more possibilities for their futures," said Vice President for Academic Services Nancy Sutton. "We look forward to sharing the Pathfinder and career room, as well as their impacts, with members of District 505 for years to come."

Both the Cobra Pathfinder and career exploration room will be made available to students, educators, and members of District 505 beginning in fall 2025 as a practical way to explore a variety of career opportunities and educational pathways. In spring 2024, Parkland was awarded the Illinois Community College Board’s Taking Back the Trades grant for the vehicle.

"It was great seeing everyone’s reactions to the mobile unit—and especially to watch our student ambassadors have fun as they explored the equipment," said Director of Career and Community Engagement Cindy Smith. "Their excitement was contagious, and it really showed the impact the Cobra Pathfinder can have on our community."

Learn more about the Cobra Pathfinder and career room at parkland.edu/pce or by contacting pce@parkland.edu.