2025 Cedar Valley Career Inspir
When: Thursday, September 25, 2025 - Friday, September 26, 2025
Where: Waterloo Convention Center
Most students do not have the opportunity to explore Eastern Iowa industries firsthand. JA Career Inspire® gives 9th grade students the chance to learn directly from industry professionals at a critical time—when they are selecting high school courses that can shape their future. This experience helps students align their coursework with career goals and better prepare for life after graduation. For businesses, higher education institutions, and apprenticeship programs, JA Career Inspire® is a valuable opportunity to help build Eastern Iowa’s future workforce.
JA Career Inspire® goes beyond a traditional career fair. It brings together local schools and the business community to launch students toward their future—whether that means high school, college, technical training, or entering the workforce. The program includes three parts: in-class sessions led by teachers, a hands-on career exploration expo, and a classroom debrief. At the expo, students engage in interactive activities that often involve real tools or equipment used in the workplace.
After completing the program, students will be able to recognize career clusters and job roles, understand the education and training needed for specific careers, and begin using tools like networking, resumes, and interview preparation. They will also learn how to take meaningful steps toward their goals and see how their choices in high school impact future success. Most importantly, they will have the opportunity to interact with industry professionals and gain a clearer sense of their career interests and priorities.
There are several ways to get involved. Individuals can serve on one of the six career cluster committees to help develop the hands-on activities students experience at the expo. Others can serve on event committees focused on areas such as marketing, logistics, and event planning. Volunteers are also needed during the expo to help run activities, guide students through the event, and manage logistics like bus arrivals and departures.
JA Career Inspire® goes beyond a traditional career fair. It brings together local schools and the business community to launch students toward their future—whether that means high school, college, technical training, or entering the workforce. The program includes three parts: in-class sessions led by teachers, a hands-on career exploration expo, and a classroom debrief. At the expo, students engage in interactive activities that often involve real tools or equipment used in the workplace.
After completing the program, students will be able to recognize career clusters and job roles, understand the education and training needed for specific careers, and begin using tools like networking, resumes, and interview preparation. They will also learn how to take meaningful steps toward their goals and see how their choices in high school impact future success. Most importantly, they will have the opportunity to interact with industry professionals and gain a clearer sense of their career interests and priorities.
There are several ways to get involved. Individuals can serve on one of the six career cluster committees to help develop the hands-on activities students experience at the expo. Others can serve on event committees focused on areas such as marketing, logistics, and event planning. Volunteers are also needed during the expo to help run activities, guide students through the event, and manage logistics like bus arrivals and departures.
Corridor Career Inspire 2023
Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Pathway Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
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Activity Sponsor
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Sponsorships for these events are critical for Junior Achievement to continue providing life-changing programs to students in our community. These programs are delivered at no cost to students. You can make a difference in the lives of these students by participating in this world-class event! Contact us to get more information on how to sponsor a JA Event!
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