Local schools and businesses partner with Junior Achievement to inspire students to explore career options

JA Inspire Career Expo is a hands-on career exploration event for local 8th grade students in the Clinton County area. On Thursday, May 8th 26 local businesses from across the area showed students what a day in the life of someone with their job looks like, how students can get that job, and what students need to do for the duration of their time in school to be successful in that career.

"We are thrilled to continue hosting JA Inspire." It was truly impactful to see local professionals connect with the future workforce, and see these students begin to map out their career paths,” said Dougal Nelson, President & CEO of JA of the Heartland.

Over 560 students participated in the JA Inspire Career Expo this year. Junior Achievement has worked closely with ten middle schools/junior highs, and high schools including Cal-Wheat Junior High School, Camanche Middle School, Central DeWitt Middle School, Clinton Middle School, Clinton High School, Northeast Middle School, North Scott Middle School, North Scott High School, St. Joseph Catholic School, and Unity Christian. “It’s truly amazing to watch students grow more confident, sharpen professional skills, and interact with local business professionals who can help shape their future,” adds Nelson.

The goal of this engaging, hands-on career expo is to prepare kids for the future. Students had the chance to meet with local companies, take part in interactive activities, and investigate potential professions. JA Inspire brings together area businesses and schools with the goal of assisting middle school kids in exploring their futures, including those in college and beyond.

Students who participated in the JA Inspire Career Expo: 

  • Connected with professionals from some of the region's most prominent employers building a strong talent pipeline for future jobs in our community. 
  • Explored career pathways and learn about the skills needed for in-demand jobs. 
  • Practiced soft skills. 
  • Connected their own interests with a variety of career opportunities. 
  • Strengthened their coursework pathway for high school and beyond. 
 The JA Inspire Career Expo was presented by ADM and Atlas Roofing, and proudly sponsored by Sethness Roquette. Lunch was provided by Jersey Mike’s Subs.
 
To learn more about this event and see the full list of exhibitors, visit our website, https://heartland.ja.org/events/2025-ja-inspire-career-expo-clinton.

 

 
 
About Junior Achievement of the Heartland
Junior Achievement is dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices. JA programs are delivered by corporate and community volunteers, and provide relevant, hands-on experiences that give students from kindergarten through high school knowledge and skills in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship.

Locally, Junior Achievement of the Heartland serves 24 counties in eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Visit heartland.ja.org for more information.