Clayton Inspires Future Leaders On Take Your Child To Work Day

CLAYTON, N.C. – Six-year-old Emmitt Shelton is heading home from the Clayton Fire Department with a big dream: one day, he wants to be a firefighter.

During Take Your Child to Work Day with the Town of Clayton on Thursday, April 23, Emmitt high-fived firefighters, explored their tools, and even tried on some of their gear. “It was awesome,” said Emmitt. “I liked the helmet the best.”

He was one of about 20 children of Town employees who spent the day learning how the Town of Clayton works and meeting the people behind the scenes.

From stretching in Town Square with Parks and Recreation to rising high in a bucket truck with the Electric Department, the day was full of hands-on fun. Kids also got to try out Public Works equipment with help from staff, learn how shows come together at The Clayton Center, race to check books in and out at Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library, and see how water is cleaned with the Water Resources Department. Each stop showed how much teamwork it takes to serve the Clayton community every day.

“Take Your Child to Work Day is a wonderful opportunity for employees to share their passion for public service with their children and families,” said Town Manager Rich Cappola. “It helps foster a deeper sense of pride in the work we do every day. For the Town, this day may even inspire future employees who could return one day as part of our dedicated team. It’s not just about showing children the value of public service. It’s about connecting with the next generation of leaders who may shape Clayton’s future.”

Throughout the day, kids asked questions, tried new things, and got a closer look at jobs they may not have known about before.

For some children, the day brings a new understanding of what their parents do every day.

Last year, five-year-old Indi Melton could only guess. “Oh, I don’t know,” she giggled when asked what her dad does at work.

One year later, Indi says things are much clearer. “It makes more sense now,” she said.

Part of a nationwide tradition, Take Your Child to Work Day gives millions of children a chance to explore different careers and see what a day at work is really like.