When Zak's former teacher reached out and asked him to come back to Merrimack High School to talk about careers, he said yes. It's the kind of thing that's easy to skip when you're busy, and exactly the kind of thing worth making time for.
At GSMS, giving back looks different depending on the moment. This time, it meant Zak stepping into a familiar hallway and talking honestly with students about what a career in the trades actually looks like.
Showing Students What a Career in the Trades Can Look Like
Zak talked with students about opportunities in HVAC and plumbing. Not just the work itself, but what building a long-term career in these fields can realistically look like.
A lot of the students were still figuring out their plans after graduation, which made the conversation feel timely. Zak shared how he got his start, answering phones, running parts, and learning each corner of the business over time. He wanted them to know that the early roles matter. Every job teaches you something, and the foundation you build early shapes where you end up.
More Than a Career Talk
The visit wasn't just about job options. Zak talked about growth, patience, and learning as you go. The kind of advice that applies whether you end up in the trades or somewhere else entirely.
Some students came up afterward with real questions about getting started, which made the trip worthwhile in the best way.
Building Awareness Around the Trades
Part of what GSMS cares about is making sure young people know these paths exist. Careers in HVAC, heating, and plumbing are skilled, stable, and genuinely in demand, and they're available right here in the community. Not every student needs a four-year degree to build something they're proud of.
Zak also brought along some GSMS gear, stress cubes, pens, and water bottles, which gave the whole thing a lighter feel and hopefully left students with something to remember the visit by.
Proud to Support the Community in a Different Way
We're proud of Zak for taking the time and representing GSMS the way he did. Thanks to Merrimack High School for welcoming him back and giving students the space to think seriously about what comes next.
