"We are proud to announce that the team of Ellis County 4-H members Faith Schmeidler and Brynlee Walter won first place in the Senior division of the 2026 Cool Careers Video Production Contest, and Barton County 4-H member Maggie Kern was first place in the Intermediate division!
The Cool Careers Video Production Contest is offered through a partnership between Kansas 4-H and HirePaths. The contest is open to youth ages 10-13 in the Intermediate division and 14-18 in the Senior Division. Individuals or teams select a profession that interests them, identify a professional in that field to interview, and tell their story. Contestants record the interview, with this opportunity serving as a chance to become a director, cinematographer, editor, and/or producer of their very own video!
Videos must answer 5 questions about the professional's career: What do they do on the job? Why did they choose their career? How did they learn the skills needed? What do they enjoy about their job? What type of education is needed for their job?
Please be sure to follow the Cottonwood Extension District Facebook page to view Faith, Brynlee, and Maggie's contest videos!"