PREPARING OUR FUTURE WORKFORCE
Skills Development Conference
May 2025 - Ankeny
During the Skills Development Conference (SDC), students in grades 7-10 participate in a full day of leadership development, skill-building, competitions, and career education. SDC is held in cooperation with Des Moines Area Community College. 56 iJAG programs attended with over 275 students involved in 2024.
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. Learn more about the 2024 competition categories:
Career Preparation
Students research a career and present on why the career is the right fit for them
L.O.V.E Project
Teams identify community inequities and work together to make a positive impact
Employability Skills
Students participate in a simulated employment interview
Prepared Speaking
Students prepare a speech and practice effective oral communication
Project Based Learning Showcase
Teams present a PBL project to a panel of judges
Ways to get involved:
- Students: Enter a competition and prepare with your Specialist!
- Employers: Volunteer as a judge for our student competitions or grab a group and package meals with students.
- Community: Click the Donate button to alleviate school expenses such as student transportation, meals, and onsite resources.
Thank you, 2024 sponsors!
SDC is just one way employers can join us to build the future. Visit our "Employers" tab to learn how your organization can get involved with us.
