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DALLAS – North Texas students got a behind-the-scenes look at some of the technology used in law enforcement at a career fair Friday.

This is the eighth year of the Criminal Justice Public Safety Fair.

The idea behind it is to introduce young people who have shown an interest in law enforcement careers some of the tools used in the workplace, as well as give them information about what it takes to become a public servant.

Representatives from approximately 50 different local, state and federal agencies gathered at UNT Dallas for a unique public safety open house.

They showed everything from helicopters and drones to narcotics detection dogs and robots operated with Xbox remotes.

“I mean, it was kind of cool. You know, I’ve never seen a helicopter in person before. So, it was good,” said Jamareon Taylor, a student at Molina High School in Dallas.

“I think it really allows me to see all the possibilities different from anything in the field of law,” said Mick Laxson, a student at the Yvonne A Ewell Townview Magnet Center in Dallas.

The Texas Department of Transportation showed the difference seat belts can make when worn or not in a rollover crash.

Taylor Cummings of Edgewood, Texas got the message.

“That’s why you have to get your belt,” she said.

Students weren’t just learning the facts about public safety. They also had to have fun with public safety.

“We want to bring them together. We want to build that trust because once trust is built, that’s how we get to safer communities,” said Dr. Aaron Bartula, associate professor of criminal justice and sociology at UNT Dallas.

Organizers hope the up-close experience opened students’ eyes to potential careers in law enforcement.

They also believe that dealing with police, firefighters and paramedics in a different way may change some views and attitudes towards those they serve and protect.