Exploring Possibilities, Building a Career
When Waukee High School graduate Josh Knight joined iJAG, he was inspired by the opportunities his brother had experienced. Through classroom speakers and hands-on learning like Build My Future, Josh began exploring different career paths and gaining real-world skills.
This past summer, he took part in the Build My Future Bootcamp, a one-week program offered through iJAG in partnership with Iowa Skilled Trades and Iowa Workforce Development. The experience combined soft skills training, job-site visits in the skilled trades, and a hiring event that connected students directly with employers.
For Josh, that connection paid off—he’s now working as a Broadband Specialist with Mediacom, installing and troubleshooting internet services for customers. “The Bootcamp helped me improve my communication, problem-solving, and how I handle stressful situations,” he said. “It also connected me to Mediacom.”
Reflecting on his journey, Josh is grateful for the support he received throughout his iJAG journey. “I’m thankful for the opportunities iJAG gave me and for the specialists and employers who helped me,” he said.
His advice for other students? “Get involved with iJAG! It helps you in real-world situations and opens you up to different perspectives and so many opportunities.”