Staff Spotlight: Meet Shelby Kobliska, 3DE™ School Coordinator

Author: Cathy Essick
Work Readiness
Published: Thursday, 02 Oct 2025

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Image caption: Get to know Shelby Kobliska, JAEI’s 3DE™ School Coordinator at Washington High School in Cedar Rapids.n

This summer, Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa (JAEI) welcomed a new team member whose passion for students and enthusiasm for innovative learning are already shining through. Shelby Kobliska (pronounced koh-BLISS-kah) joined the JAEI team on July 1st as the 3DE™ School Coordinator at Washington High School in Cedar Rapids, where she’ll help launch the school’s very first year of 3DE™ programming.

Shelby was drawn to JAEI by more than just the role itself—she was inspired by the team behind it. “The culture of the JAEI team and the work they are doing in the community sparked my interest. This is the kind of team that outsiders see, and it’s hard not to want to be a part of it,” she shared. “I’m very much looking forward to supporting and guiding students in this community!”

For Shelby, what stands out most about her work so far is the shared passion across the entire organization. “I love that every single staff member is on the same page about wanting the very best for students and the future of our community.”

It’s no surprise, then, that Shelby is especially excited about 3DE™—the program that led her to JA in the first place. As a student herself, she excelled in group projects and presentations but struggled with traditional tests. The real-world, project-based learning model of 3DE™ immediately resonated with her. “I wished I would have had something like this in high school. Students are able to see the direct connection between what they’re learning and their future careers.”

Shelby also brings a strong personal belief in the importance of financial literacy. She reflects on the question, “What would the world look like if we neglected to teach financial literacy at a young age?” Her answer: a scary thought. Instead, she wants to help ensure the next generation is confident, prepared, and equipped to face life’s financial challenges.

Outside of work, Shelby leads a busy and fulfilling life. She’s a certified yoga instructor and, together with her dog Roxy, is a certified therapy team through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. The pair especially love volunteering at The Arc of East Central Iowa.

When asked how the community can best support JAEI’s mission, Shelby is clear: volunteer. “It’s our civic duty as community members to give back. There isn’t a better way than to positively influence the next generation through JA programming.”

Shelby’s excitement for the future of JAEI is contagious. “Seeing how 3DE™ will grow as a platform to propel the next generation of leaders here in Eastern Iowa—that’s what I’m most looking forward to.”