CareerSpark: Inspiring minds and shaping futures in Logan County returns October 17th

[September 24, 2025]  Lincoln, IL - Lincoln Economic Advancement & Development, Inc. (LEAD), in partnership with Junior Achievement of Central Illinois, is proud to announce the return of CareerSpark, a hands-on career exploration expo for 8th-grade students. This year’s event will be held on October 17th at the Lincoln Park District’s Recreation Center, providing expanded space for exhibits, interactive activities, and more community connections.

Nearly 300 Logan County 8th graders are expected to attend this year’s event, a growth from last year’s 255 students. CareerSpark is designed to inspire young minds by showcasing diverse opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, business, and additional fields that drive Logan County’s economy.

Last year’s impact speaks volumes:

• 67.42% of students reported that CareerSpark helped them decide on a future career path.

• 56.06% of students said they are now considering a career they had not thought of before attending.

“CareerSpark is more than just a one-day event — it is an investment in our students and the future of Logan County,” said Andrea Runge, CEO of LEAD. “By connecting employers directly with students, we create opportunities for real conversations, hands-on learning, and lasting inspiration. With more students and more space this year, CareerSpark is set to have an even greater impact.”

An exhibitor last year noted, “CareerSpark was a great way to interact and connect with students! Beyond telling them about our company and what we do, the students were able to tell us about what they know and their future goals, which were all very exciting!”

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In preparation for the expo, schools will once again receive Junior Achievement’s JA Inspire® curriculum and access to free career readiness tools. These resources help teachers guide students through career assessments, individualized planning, and exploration of industries prior to the event. On the day of CareerSpark, students will rotate through career clusters, where over 30 regional businesses will bring professionals, interactive exhibits, and real-world demonstrations.
CareerSpark in Logan County is made possible thanks to Eaton Corporation and other dedicated sponsors and partners who share a commitment to preparing the region’s future workforce.

About LEAD
LEAD’s mission is to empower Lincoln’s economic health and vitality. To learn more about LEAD, visit https://thriveinlincoln.org/.

About Junior Achievement of Central Illinois
Junior Achievement of Central Illinois 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. Their region covers 29 central Illinois counties, reaching 16,000 K–12 students each year. Learn more at centralillinois.ja.org.
 

[Text received from Andrea Runge]

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