Category: Career Exploration

Partner Spotlight: Some Lucky Employers Can “Grow Their Own”

Author: Mary Motiska

Published: March 28, 2025
Article originally written: November 25, 2024

While our schools certainly benefit from the many career-based learning experiences with local employers in the Inspire Wisconsin Network, they have the unique opportunity to “grow their own” by hosting experiences as well. The School District of Sheboygan Falls has implemented job shadowing as a pipeline development tool and sees the benefits for both students and staff alike.

“More than half of the teachers in the district have stepped up to provide students the opportunity to job shadow teachers. They are committed to growing the profession and ensuring students interested in pursuing education as a career have opportunities to learn from experienced teachers in classrooms, supporting our values to prepare students for their life and careers,” states School Superintendent Zach Pethan. 

“I appreciate the opportunity to host job shadow students, as I know we are needing more young people to pursue education as a career choice. If I can help spark or increase a student’s interest in teaching by simply opening up my classroom, I am happy to do so,” says Cassie Adelman, who teaches 5K at Sheboygan Falls Elementary.

“I love hosting students who are interested in pursuing an education degree. It allows me to share the joy and rewards of teaching young children. Watching them engage with and learn from my 4-year-old kindergarteners provides them with invaluable hands-on experience and reinforces the importance of building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. It’s a privilege to support their interest and inspire future educators,” adds 4K Teacher Nicole Granke. 

This effort, coupled with other initiatives aimed at addressing Wisconsin’s education workforce crisis, allows students to get a “behind the scenes look” and explore education as a viable career pathway. Students can get a head start in the career field through the new Education Pathways in the Youth Apprenticeship program, something they couldn’t do previously without at least some post-secondary schooling.

Whether you are considering a career in teaching, educational administration, or any other field within the education sector, the School District of Sheboygan Falls is just one partner committed to supporting students in achieving their goals. We encourage all interested students and their families to take full advantage of the opportunities available through Inspire Wisconsin in all industries. Stay tuned for more highlights of our partnerships, where we will showcase specific programs, share success stories, and provide ways to engage with Inspire Wisconsin. Together, we can make an even greater impact and help students build brighter futures.

Career Connected: How Inspire Wisconsin Enhances the “Career” in Career and Technical Education

Author: Candice Boutelle

February 14, 2025

Career & Technical Education (CTE) plays a crucial role in preparing students for their futures, yet many people associate it solely with traditional “tech ed” courses like woodworking or auto mechanics. While these fields are certainly part of CTE, the reality is that CTE encompasses a wide range of career pathways, including health sciences, information technology, business and marketing, agriculture, manufacturing, engineering, hospitality, and more. Each of these disciplines provides students with hands-on learning experiences that align with in-demand careers. At Inspire Wisconsin, we are proud to support CTE by connecting students with real-world career exploration opportunities, such as job shadows, virtual career conversations and Work Based Learning opportunities.

When students engage directly with professionals and workplaces, they gain a deeper understanding of career paths and develop critical skills that set them up for long-term success. These experiences not only help students make informed decisions about their futures, but they also provide employers with opportunities to inspire and shape the next generation of workers.

Wisconsin State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly recently highlighted the importance of CTE in a recent editorial. She emphasizes the role of CTE in creating strong career pathways and building a skilled workforce. We encourage parents, educators, and employers to read her piece and consider how they can support students through hands-on learning opportunities.

At Inspire Wisconsin, we believe that every student should have access to meaningful career-based learning experiences. Whether you’re an employer looking to engage with future talent or a parent guiding your child’s career journey, we invite you to be part of this important work.Learn more about how Inspire Wisconsin is helping students explore careers and gain real-world experience at InspireWI.org.