ConnectED Polk Career Engagement Process

ConnectED Polk works one-on-one with businesses to uncover their goals, priorities, and capacity for engagement. We then design exclusive, customized plans that align with each company’s needs—whether that means recruitment support, skills alignment, brand visibility, or workforce development. This tailored approach ensures measurable impact for businesses while preparing students for future success.

Career Showcase 

Exclusive events where businesses showcase their industries and career pathways to inspire and educate students on what is possible.  These events allow students to explore various career options and engage with professionals in an interactive environment.

Flip The Script: Reverse Career Interview 

Reverse interviews where students interview industry professionals. This unique format allows students to gain deeper insights into the industry while developing their communication skills and gaining career guidance. 

Career Conversations: (NEW)

Industry leaders gain exclusive access to inspire students, spark interest in their sector, and recruit motivated future talent for jobs or enrollment into career training programs. There will be clear parameters for who is eligible to register for your event, based on your industry expectations. For example, applicants may need to be at least 18 years old to apply for certain positions or programs.

Academy Career Connections (NEW)

Industry professionals engage directly with Academy students, sharing insights into their fields, career journeys, and the skills required for success. This intentional exposure helps students better understand opportunities within specific industries.

Virtual Field Trips (PILOT)

In partnership with industry leaders, Virtual Field Trips bring workplaces directly into the classroom. By showcasing diverse career roles and environments—from innovation labs to manufacturing floors—students gain insight into real-world skills and opportunities. This cost-effective approach helps schools, especially in rural areas, overcome barriers of travel, scheduling, and access while providing engaging, career-focused learning experiences.

Career Readiness and Soft Skills Guidance

NOTE: We ask that industry partners layer in career readiness and soft skills guidance to all events in order to provide much needed guidance to our future workforce. This dimension should be infused in every student touchpoint — ensuring each engagement builds holistic preparation for real-world careers.

Action Committees: Ongoing Improvement

ConnectED surveys students after each engagement to ensure they receive valuable information that prepares them to be informed graduates with strong ties to a sector or organization. Twice each quarter, we host Action Committees that review student feedback and gather input from business leaders and educators to guide ongoing improvements.