CareerSpark: Inspiring Minds and Shaping Futures in Logan County on November 1st

 

[October 24, 2024]    Lincoln Economic Advancement & Development, Inc., (LEAD) in partnership with Junior Achievement of Central Illinois, is excited to announce the upcoming CareerSpark experience, sponsored by a generous grant from Eaton Corporation.

This transformative career exploration expo will take place at Lincoln Junior High on November 1st, welcoming 255 area 8th grade students.

CareerSpark is designed to inspire and guide young minds towards promising careers through hands-on activities that showcase diverse career opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, business, agriculture, and more. CareerSpark connects Logan County’s soon-to-be high school students with essential career resources.

“The future of any community lies with its children. As we look to strengthen Logan County’s economic future, it is important to involve our students early within the process,” said LEAD CEO, Andrea Runge. “The CareerSpark model is a wonderful opportunity for local employers and students to engage in conversation while participating in an activity. Students can then start dreaming about their future education and career paths which engage their interests and have tangible examples of those careers within the county in which they were raised.”

Before and after the CareerSpark expo, schools will receive Junior Achievement’s JA Inspire® curriculum materials to help teachers prepare their students. This includes free access to a career interest inventory and resources for developing individualized career action plans.

At the CareerSpark expo, each career cluster’s zone will feature interactive activities that demonstrate real jobs within that industry, providing a crucial touchpoint for eighth grade students before they select their high school courses. Over 30 regional businesses have committed resources, volunteers, and industry experts to make these activities possible.

Logan County CareerSpark is made possible by Eaton Corporation and other dedicated sponsors.

About LEAD

LEAD’s mission is to empower Lincoln’s economic health and vitality. To learn more about LEAD, please visit www.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 including Peoria, Woodford, Tazewell, McLean, Logan, and Sangamon, and they reach 16,000 K-12th grade students per year. Learn more at centralillinois.ja.org

[Andrea Runge]