Goodwill Industries of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties brought students, educators, employers, and community leaders together in Santa Maria for its Level Up Youth Summit.
The event focused on helping young people prepare for future careers through networking opportunities, workforce readiness workshops, and career exploration activities.
Students also learned about internship, employment, and scholarship opportunities available throughout the region.
Organizers say the summit is part of an ongoing effort to connect local youth with resources that can help them succeed in school, the workforce, and beyond.