Career Connect

Introduce High School Students to the World of Work

Through Career Connect, YouthForce NOLA and Junior Achievement partner with local business leaders and industry experts to strengthen and reimagine the high school experience for the next generation. Share your wisdom, promote your industry, and help us equip public school students with the skills and know-how they need to be ready for their future careers, including right here in New Orleans.

Career Connect

The opportunities we organize can be done on your own schedule with the time you have available. Introduce yourself to the Career Connect team so we can keep you updated on how to get involved throughout the year.

Guest Speaker

Speak with students about your career and education/training history, and answer their questions. We connect you with local educators, and help prepare you for the session with talking points and a presentation.

Career Fair

Help students explore their options and aspirations by exhibiting at a public school Career Fair. We connect you with local educators planning events for their students, and we offer extensive support with planning and execution.

Site Visit

Host students at your job site for a 60- to 120-minute tour to learn more about your company and industry overall. 

Original Programming

Have another idea? All of our programs can be adapted or combined to meet the needs of public school educators and students, and we regularly develop customized programming in consultation with our local business partners. Send us your creative ideas and we’ll connect you with local educators and students who can benefit from your wisdom.

Professional Skill Building

Prepare students for the world of work by introducing them to the essentials of professional communication and relationship-building. We provide lesson plans, and help you incorporate your distinct expertise and experiences. 

Career Expo

Each spring, we gather 2,000+ public high school freshmen from public schools across the city to expose them to career pathways that will put them on a path to economic prosperity. We focus on good-paying, in-demand careers in four areas: digital media/IT, skilled crafts, health sciences, and business services, while highlighting green infrastructure and STEM careers.

Career Expo offers the local business community an opportunity to introduce and expose young people to their industry and work in a fun, interactive, and relaxed environment.

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