Build My Future Gives Employers a Direct Role in Workforce Development

More than 750 Northwest Iowa high school students attended Build My Future 2026 at the Clay County Regional Events Center in Spencer on April 23. They explored careers through hands-on activities in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, utilities, agriculture, and public safety.
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For employers, the event provided a direct connection to future workers while students are still exploring career options. Participating businesses reported meaningful conversations, strong student engagement, and a valuable opportunity to help shape the region's future workforce.

Employers Connected With Students Through Hands-On Learning

Unlike traditional career fairs that often rely on brochures and presentations, Build My Future offered a more interactive experience.

Each exhibitor offered interactive activities that allowed students to practice real job skills. Employers noted this approach resulted in higher engagement and more meaningful conversations.
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One exhibitor observed that every booth featured interactive displays that kept students engaged throughout the event. Another highlighted that, unlike traditional career fairs, students actively participated rather than just walking through exhibits.
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Employers consistently reported that students were genuinely interested in learning about careers and actively engaged in activities. Several exhibitors noted that student participation exceeded levels seen at other workforce events.

Businesses Helped Students Explore Local Career Paths

Build My Future allowed employers to introduce students to local career opportunities.
Students met representatives from key industries in Northwest Iowa. These conversations helped students understand required skills, potential career paths, and opportunities within their local communities.

K&W Electric, Inc. summarized the value of the event well: “The Build My Future event allows students to discover attainable paths to high-demand careers while connecting them to local businesses. We are grateful for the opportunity to engage with students and inspire the next generation of skilled trades.”

For many employers, the event went beyond recruitment. It provided an opportunity to help students make informed decisions about education, training, and future employment.

Strong Participation Reflects Employer Value

Exhibitor feedback confirmed that employers found significant value in participating.
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Survey results showed:

• Overall event rating: 4.9 out of 5
• Communication before the event: 5.0 out of 5
• Booth layout rating: 4.9 out of 5
• Setup and teardown experience: 4.8 out of 5
• Student engagement rating: 4.3 out of 5
• 100% of responding exhibitors plan to participate again

Employers also praised the event’s organization and support. One participant noted that the Corridor staff responded promptly to requests and provided sufficient setup time before students arrived.

The strong commitment to return in future years highlights the value employers place on direct engagement with students.

Employers Can Help Build the Next Workforce

Workforce development begins when students first learn about career opportunities and start considering their future options, not when a company posts a job opening.
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Build My Future enabled employers to be part of this process. By participating, businesses can introduce students to local career paths, answer questions, and help generate interest in industries that need skilled workers.
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The event also showed how employers, schools, and community partners can collaborate to support long-term workforce growth across Northwest Iowa.

Get Involved in Build My Future 2027

Build My Future is now a key workforce development initiative for Northwest Iowa, with employer participation playing a critical role in its success.
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If your organization wants to connect with future talent, introduce students to career opportunities, and support workforce development in the region, contact Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation to learn how to participate in Build My Future 2027.