Penn Freshmen Explore Future Careers at JA JobSpark Expo

Approximately 300 Penn High School freshmen stepped outside the classroom this week to explore future career possibilities at the JA JobSpark Career Expo, held at the Century Center in South Bend.

Joining hundreds of students from across the Michiana area, Penn students took part in hands-on activities designed to introduce them to real-world careers and local industries. The interactive format gave students a chance to try new skills, ask questions, and begin thinking about their future paths.

Throughout the expo, students rotated through a variety of stations representing different career fields. They tested their skills in trades like masonry, construction, roofing, and electrical work. Others practiced detecting counterfeit bills with First Source Bank, analyzed fingerprints in a mock crime lab with the South Bend Police Department, or explored careers in healthcare through physical therapy and dentistry activities.

Students also experienced creative and service-based careers, including hairdressing, food preparation with Taco Bell and Arby’s, and even reading from a teleprompter with WNDU 16 News. Additional stations allowed students to take professional headshots, try out recreational activities like Frisbee golf, and explore products from local manufacturers such as Barletta and Lippert.

The trip was organized by Penn’s Director of Counseling, John Westra, whose efforts helped make this opportunity possible for students.

Experiences like JobSpark give students an early look at potential career paths while connecting classroom learning to real-world opportunities right here in the local community.