WARREN — More than 30 professionals from diverse fields gathered at Warren G. Harding High School Friday morning to guide seniors as they prepare for life after graduation.

The event, hosted by Michael Engram, a 1996 Harding graduate and founder of the mentorship organization Game Changers, aimed to equip students with tools and knowledge for their next steps, whether college, the workforce, the military or trade schools.

According to a Game Changers news release, the three-hour event featured guest speakers and a panel discussion with local leaders.

Panelists included licensed professional clinical counselor Queenie V. Lathan; Western Reserve Port Authority board member and business owner Sterling McCullough Williams; State Rep. Nick Santucci, R-Niles; Jenna Ficken, vice president of human resources for Berk Bonds; Guy Coviello, president and CEO of the Youngstown / Warren Regional Chamber of Commerce; Tracie Mavrogianis, VP of AVI Food Systems; and moderator Todd Johnson, pastor and 1st Ward council member.

Panelists shared personal stories, career advice and practical tips to help students transition into adulthood. Students also connected with professionals from the Mahoning Valley, learning about career paths and employment opportunities.

“This is our final Game Changers event this year, and we wanted to be here because, years ago, I was in your shoes with so many questions about what came next,” Engram told the students. “We’re here to set you up for success and help you understand the rules of the game.” Panelists discussed the value of self-care, confidence and seizing opportunities.

Lathan highlighted the emotional challenges of transitions, urging students to stay connected to their support systems and make positive decisions.

“Enjoy the journey,” she added.

Ficken stressed the importance of confidence and work ethic. “Walk into an interview confident in who you are,” she said. “Whether you’re heading to college or the workforce, a strong work ethic and positive attitude can open doors.”

Coviello discussed the region’s growing economic opportunities, particularly in advanced manufacturing and other industries.

“Job growth is happening in every field, from engineering to health care,” he said. “The chance to build a career and life here is better than it’s been in decades.”

Williams highlighted local development projects, such as the Kimberly-Clark facility on Pine Street, which is expected to create more than 1,200 jobs in the next six years.

“Our goal is to keep building and bringing growth to Warren,” he said.

Johnson encouraged students to leverage available resources.

“Every person you meet could be an opportunity,” he said. “My first job came from being professional and attentive to a customer’s needs — a small interaction that changed my life.”

Engram left the seniors with a final thought: “You’ll only be a high school student once. Be your best self, and don’t look back with regrets.”