The Valparaiso-based Center of Workforce Innovations hosted an expo April 9 for youth to explore career options.
More than 70 exhibitors, including employers, educational institutions and training providers, attended the event in Merrillville. Now in the fourth year, the expos connect youth to resources and options to explore jobs.
This year’s expo theme was Bridging the Gap for Student Success: Beyond the Diploma. CWI’s career coaching initiative aims to help young adults explore potential occupational pathways. The expos connect high school students and recent graduates with recruiters from in-demand industries such as health care and construction.
“Our goal is to ignite young people’s imagination about the incredible opportunities available within our community,” said Dominque Smiley, CWI director of engagement, in a press release. “For many students, this may be their first opportunity to consider what lies ahead for them. It’s a great chance for us to meet them where they are and change their future.”
The event included panel discussions by industry professionals. Maurice “Chef Blāque” Shelton, season one winner of Netflix’s Sugar Rush, led a panel titled Unleashing Your Entrepreneurial Mindset. Attendees also had the opportunity to connect with Catisha Toney, Coates, Inc. president and CEO. Her panel, Beyond the Diploma: Next Steps for Young Adults After School, offered insights for recent graduates.
Kevin Comerford, Construction Advancement Foundation director of professional development, introduced students to jobs within skilled trades. Amy Henningfield, Construction Advancement Foundation’s Women in Construction program board member, joined him in the discussion.
CWI is hosting another youth expo 10 a.m. to noon April 16. The event will take place at the AK Smith Area Career Center in Michigan City.
The NextGen Youth Expo initiative is funded by a grant from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. CWI received the grant to help high school students navigate the state’s updated high school requirements.
