From USD 428
Great Bend High School students recently learned about the rapidly evolving world of digital media and immersive technology during a visit from representatives of Kansas State University’s Aerospace and Technology Campus in Salina.
Representatives met with students in Hugo Gonzales’s digital media and design classes to highlight emerging educational and career pathways. The presentation showcased K-State’s new state-of-the-art facility, K-AIRES (Kansas Artificial Intelligence Research & Entertainment Studio), developed in partnership with Pure Imagination Studios. K-AIRES merges storytelling, design, coding, artificial intelligence, virtual environments, graphic design, and communication to serve industries ranging from entertainment to aerospace, manufacturing, and defense.
During the visit, representatives shared exciting plans to expand K-AIRES' footprint, including new technologies like a COSM Dome and Pure Imagination Studios’ planned relocation from California to Salina—a strategic move designed to create regional job opportunities for graduates.
Students also learned about K-State’s Immersive Systems Design bachelor’s degree, which prepares students for careers in video game design, 3D effects, user experience (UX) design, and interactive media. Representatives emphasized how design and communication fields are increasingly prioritizing UX while reassuring students that print media remains vital through packaging, publishing, and physical products.
For many students, the visit provided timely reassurance regarding the role of artificial intelligence in creative fields.
“In the past, my students questioned the future of the design and digital media pathway because of AI, and we’ve had many interesting conversations about their concerns that the industry might disappear,” said Hugo Gonzales, GBHS digital media instructor. “This was a great topic for our students. K-State’s visit was a true eye-opener for anyone who was unsure, answering many of the questions our students had and showing them what the future holds for those who want to pursue higher education in this field.”
Gonzales added, “Connecting our students with both industry and education opportunities helps them see how the skills they are developing today translate directly into the careers of tomorrow. We appreciate K-State taking the time to introduce our students to these exciting possibilities.”
Great Bend High School continues to offer students opportunities to explore college and career pathways through its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, equipping them with the practical skills needed for higher education, technical certification, or immediate entry into the workforce.
For more information about GBHS’s CTE pathways, contact Assistant Principal Carrie Minton at 620-793-1521 or visit gbhs.greatbendschools.net/career-pathways.