As part of RoadTrip Nations’ Columbus story, local business celebrities Cameron Mitchell and Dr. Frederick Bertley share personal stories of achievement. Mitchell and Bertley’s career stories of STEM and entrepreneurship are included along with a diverse Columbus group covering their career journeys n healthcare, construction, and education. 

The interviews, conducted by young career explorers, are part of a vast repository of different careers and the various pathways to achieve them. These interviews illustrate and confirm that there is a world of interesting, rewarding, and lucrative careers for anyone willing to put in the effort.

Sydney Young, a field engineer with CK Construction in Columbus talks about deciding very early to pursue a career in construction, surprising her parents, and the challenges of being a woman in a traditionally male field. 

Cameron Mitchell, CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, say’s “I’ve been lying to my wife for 30 years saying I’m going to work” …  I love what I do, and I feel like I’ve never worked a day in my life.”

Frederick Bertley, CEO of COSI, surprises everyone with his youthful stories of pursuing a dream to be an NHL player before moving on to science.

Casey King shares strategies she’s used to overcome challenges and prejudice as a hearing-impaired person to achieve her dream career in health care at the Wexner Medical Center.

Amber Grauer an elementary school teacher in Columbus City Schools provides a heartfelt look at the rewards and challenges of helping young people navigate day-to-day life in the world of education.

These local interviews are woven into the greater database so our Columbus leaders will pop up from time to when exploring, depending on your interests and search terms. Combined with a straightforward and fun 5-part curriculum, students explore their interests to connect to real-world opportunities. Once a career interest is identified students will connect and interview a person currently in that field to complete the course. 

Road Trip Nation, an educational program stemming from the PBS documentary series, offers students a transformative experience in discovering their purpose and passion. The program introduces students to a world of career possibilities. By following real people who have succeeded in unconventional paths, students broaden their horizons, realize the attainability of their dreams, and chart a path toward their future selves. 

The program offers hands-on experiences with professionals in various fields, enriching knowledge and providing practical insights into desired careers. Students witness the real-life challenges faced by individuals on their journeys. 

Road Trip Nation teaches invaluable life skills, showing that determination can overcome setbacks. It encourages students to explore their values, interests, and passions. This self-discovery journey boosts self-esteem and equips them to make informed decisions about education and careers. Students are empowered to make choices based on their passions rather than societal expectations, encouraging them to take ownership of their lives and destinies.

More than just an educational program, RTN is a transformative journey that encourages students to discover, learn, and embrace their unique paths. As students embark on their roads, they carry invaluable lessons from this program, serving as a roadmap to a brighter future.