High school students are stepping into the business world, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit at a recent trade show in Marshall. This event illustrates the importance of practical experience for young people as they prepare for the future job market.

The CEO Trade Show Experience

On a recent Wednesday evening, students from Marshall, Murray County Central, Russell-Tyler-Ruthton, and Tracy Area high schools gathered at the Red Baron Arena. They participated in the annual Lyon and Murray County CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) trade show. Launched in 2022, this program empowers students to develop their own businesses over the course of the year, gaining real-world skills along the way.

At the show, attendees saw various businesses presented by the students, each showcasing creativity and hard work. These budding entrepreneurs have not only learned about business management but also had the chance to meet local mentors who provided guidance and support throughout the process.

Student Ventures on Display

Among the standout booths, Yousef Bahjat, a junior from Marshall, launched Shine Ride Detailing. His booth was filled with the tools of his trade. “I detail cars pretty much. I restore cars; I’m like a magician,” Bahjat shared. His services include everything from interior cleaning to full detailing, tailored to different vehicle types.

Another student, Riley Pfannschmidt, showcased Midwest Custom Interior, offering unique car customization. His display featured a car ceiling embedded with starlights, a product inspired by trends he found on TikTok. “I like doing different things,” he said, highlighting his passion for the craft.

A Range of Innovative Ideas

Students presented a diverse array of businesses, from mobile car detailing to clothing brands. For example, Denis Flores operates Flores D & T, a mobile detailing service focused on high-quality results. "I started a year and a half ago," he explained. His journey began by watching detailing videos online, which inspired him to turn this hobby into a business.

Other students took a creative route with fashion. Luke Iverson and Caleb Rosenbrook introduced Northline Gear, aiming to make outdoor clothing. Brennen Cullins, a senior, launched Christ First, a Christian-themed clothing line meant to spread awareness. His venture has been successful so far, indicating a strong market for mission-driven brands.

The Importance of Entrepreneurial Education

Through this program, students gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship. They attend business visits, hear from guest speakers, and benefit from personalized mentorship. These experiences help them understand real-world business challenges and successes.

Tucker Gile, an RTR senior, started Fish On Jigs, a tackle store that sells hand-tied fishing lures. He expressed how his childhood hobby turned into a viable business idea. “I have been doing this at home for a while with family members,” Gile said, showcasing the personal connection many of these students have with their enterprises.

The event was not just about showcasing products, but also about nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. It highlights the skills and confidence students gain that will benefit them in any future career.

What this means for you

The Lyon and Murray County CEO trade show serves as a reminder of the importance of practical experience in education today. As young people learn about business, they develop skills that can help them succeed in various fields. If you ever need to review an employment contract, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can translate it into plain English in seconds. This ensures that you understand the terms before signing, just as these students are learning to grasp the details of their business agreements.

Source: https://www.marshallindependent.com/news/local-news/2026/05/students-showcase-self-started-businesses/