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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