COME SEE US SOON
We host a variety of local and statewide events as a way to meet program goals and support student development. Each experience is centered on creating and building meaningful connections between students, stakeholders, and program supporters, as well as delivering situations where they can develop soft skills, demonstrate leadership, or practice problem-solving or other essential constructs.
Thanks to support from our stakeholders, these events build on our foundation of building Iowa’s future. Take a look at what’s coming up and ways you can get involved:
Leadership Development Conference (LDC)
November 2026 - Date & Location TBD
Students work to develop their individual leadership and teamwork skills, participate in workshops, create a success plan for their iJAG program, and more. These leaders are responsible for applying the skills they’ve learned and implementing their success plan throughout the school year.
Select students will also attend the JAG National Leadership Development Academy this winter.
Career Development Conference (CDC)
March 26, 2026 - Des Moines, Iowa
iJAG students in grades 10-12 participate in a full-day career discovery and professional development program, featuring employer-led workshops, networking opportunities, and a career fair. CDC also features competitions with categories that challenge students on soft skills, presentation abilities, and professionalism.
Select students will also attend the JAG National Career Development Conference in the spring.
Build My Future
April 2026 - Date TBD, Des Moines, Iowa
Hosted by Iowa Skilled Trades, Build My Future is the largest hands-on career exploration event in the state. Additionally, a ‘Signing Day’ ceremony is held for select students to declare their commitment to pursue a career in skilled trades alongside an employer partner.
Skills Development Conference (SDC)
May 2026 - Date & Location TBD
Students in grades 7-10 participate in a full-day leadership development, skill-building, competition, and career education program.
This event features several categories of competitions that challenge students on various subject matter in addition to soft skills, presentation abilities, and professionalism. Whether competing individually or as a group, students work closely with their iJAG Specialists and employer mentors to prepare for the big day.