Build My Future Gives Students a Closer Look at Career Opportunities Across Northwest Iowa

This spring, more than 750 high school students attended the Clay County Regional Events Center, gaining hands-on experience, new career insights, and direct interactions with employers from Northwest Iowa.

Hosted by Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation, Build My Future 2026 introduced students to careers in agriculture, healthcare, construction, manufacturing, utilities, public safety, and more. The event enabled students from across Northwest Iowa to explore careers through real-world activities instead of traditional classroom discussions.

Educators reported that this approach made a measurable difference.

Students Learned by Doing

Teachers consistently identified hands-on activities as the most valuable aspect of the event. Students operated equipment, practiced skills, and engaged directly with professionals rather than only listening to presentations.

Popular activities included:

• Welding simulators
• CPR training
• Medical procedure demonstrations
• Excavator operation simulators
• Virtual reality experiences
• Manufacturing demonstrations

Over 70 percent of survey respondents described their students as mostly or very engaged throughout the event.

One educator noted that "almost every student stated they were far more engaged because there were hands-on things to do, making it easy and fun for them." Another teacher noted that the event allowed students to experience careers firsthand rather than just hear about them.

This feedback supports one of Build My Future's primary goals: making career exploration more meaningful by connecting classroom learning to real work environments and practical skills.

Students Discovered More Career Options

Several educators observed that students were surprised by the variety of careers represented.

While many students expected to see construction and mechanical trades, they also discovered opportunities in healthcare, law enforcement, advanced manufacturing, utilities, and other fields. One teacher shared that many students returned to school talking about healthcare activities such as CPR training, intubation demonstrations, and IV practice. 

Another educator said students appreciated seeing "more than just mechanic occupations" and left the event thinking differently about potential career paths.

This exposure is valuable for communities across Northwest Iowa, as students often know little about local career options. Build My Future connects young people with employers and industries seeking talent.

Employers and Educators Created Meaningful Connections

Teachers also emphasized the quality of interactions between students and exhibitors.

Many noted that employers were enthusiastic, approachable, and willing to answer questions. Students moved easily between industries, gaining insights from professionals working in those fields.

One educator described the event as a chance for students to "see many different careers in one afternoon" through hands-on learning experiences. Another noted that engagement between businesses and students helped foster a better understanding of local career opportunities.

Many schools plan to return in 2027, with some expecting to bring larger groups of students.

Schools Are Already Looking Ahead to 2027

Feedback from students, educators, and employers indicates ongoing demand for Build My Future throughout the region.

Teachers reported positive feedback from students, parents, and local communities. Several noted that students continued to discuss their experiences well after returning to school.

For many students, the event offered a first look at previously unconsidered careers. Employers connected with the next generation of workers, while schools reinforced the value of career exploration through direct experience.

These outcomes help explain why so many participating schools are already planning to return.

Contact the Corridor to Get Involved in 2027

Schools interested in participating in the next Build My Future event sign up today to help connect students with regional employers.

The Corridor continues to collaborate with educators, businesses, and industry partners to provide students with meaningful career exploration opportunities that support workforce development across Northwest Iowa.