2025 JA Inspire Career Expo - Quad Cities

Featuring: JA Inspire Entry

JA Inspire® Entry is more than a career fair. It brings together the business community and local schools and is designed to help launch middle school students into their future - high school, postsecondary education, and careers beyond. The program consists of three segments: (1) pre-event career-oriented sessions; (2) the JA Inspire event, and (3) a post-event reflection. The JA Inspire event (in-person, virtual, or both) provides students a powerful way to learn about real-world career opportunities and their local economy. Education Level: Middle School

When: Thursday, November 13, 2025 - Friday, November 14, 2025

Where: Bend XPO

Time: 8:30 AM CT

Junior Achievement of the Heartland is hosting JA Inspire, a hands-on, interactive career expo experience to help 8th grade students launch into their futures. JA Inspire provides students the opportunity to connect with local businesses, participate in interactive exhibits, and explore career pathways. More than just a career expo, JA Inspire brings together the business community with local schools and is designed to help middle school students explore their futures: high school, college, and careers beyond.

Event times:
November 13: 9 - 11 am, 11:30 - 1:30 pm
November 14: 9 - 11 am, 11:30 - 1:30 pm

Students who participate in the JA Inspire event will:
-Connect with professionals from some of the region's most prominent employers, building a strong talent pipeline for future jobs in our community.
-Explore career pathways and learn about the skills needed for in-demand jobs.
-Practice soft skills.
-Connect their own interests with a variety of career opportunities.
-Strengthen their coursework pathway for high school and beyond.