By Kimba Rund
Career exploration is most powerful when students can experience industries firsthand. Recently, more than 30 students from the Greater Lafayette region’s Locally Created Pathway (LCP) programs participated in Public Safety and Human Services Skills Bootcamps, where they engaged directly with professionals working in these fields.
These students are part of a program designed to help them explore careers, build workforce-ready skills, and connect their education to real opportunities in their community, all while helping them meet box 3 graduation requirements. Postsecondary-Ready Compentencies, an Indiana box 3 graduation requirement, requires students to demonstrate they are ready for college or careers. The Career+ locally created pathway is an IDOE approved option to meet this requirement.
A Hands-On Approach to Career Exploration
During the bootcamps, students rotated through interactive stations led by local organizations and employers who shared both the realities and rewards of working in these industries.
We were fortunate to partner with an incredible group of community organizations, including:
- Lafayette Fire Department
- Tippecanoe County Community Corrections
- Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) Corporate Security
- LittleStar ABA Therapy- West Lafayette
- Valley Oaks Health
- Mental Health America- Wabash Valley Region
- United Way of Greater Lafayette
Each station provided a different perspective on careers in Public Safety and Human Services. Students practiced communication, problem-solving, and teamwork through hands-on activities that reflected real workplace scenarios. Students engaged in skill building exercises such as case management simulations, functional communication training, risk assessment simulations, and so much more! A favorite activity among students was the opportunity to try on firefighter equipment and complete a dummy drag. Students were shocked to discover just how much extra weight the equipment adds, adding to the difficulty of an intense role.
For many students, this was their first opportunity to interact directly with professionals in these fields.
What Students Experienced
Rather than simply hearing about careers, students were able to step into simulations and activities that demonstrated the kinds of skills required in these professions.
Across the bootcamps, students practiced and explored skills such as:
- Communication and teamwork
- Situational awareness and decision-making
- Problem-solving in real-world scenarios
- Understanding the diverse roles within each industry
These experiences helped students see how classroom learning connects to real careers.
What Students Told Us
Student feedback showed strong engagement and skill development throughout the bootcamp experience.
- 84% of students rated the bootcamp a 4 or higher on a 1–5 Likert scale, indicating strong overall satisfaction with the experience.
- 100% of students reported developing industry-relevant skills, with many indicating the activities helped them practice communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Students shared feedback like:
“Everything I learned today was interesting.”
“Very informative program.”
“Loved the activities.”
“It expanded my career choices.”
These responses reflect exactly what these experiences are designed to accomplish: helping students see new possibilities while building practical skills they can carry into any career.
Building Career Awareness Over Time
This was not the students’ first exposure to career exploration. Earlier this school year, these same students attended a bootcamp in a different industry, meaning they have now experienced two separate industry bootcamps.
In addition, students in the program complete:
- Virtual industry chats with professionals
- Career tours that showcase workplaces and career pathways
- Microcredential coursework that supports Indiana’s 18 employability skills
Together, these experiences help students build a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them after graduation.
Why Community Partnerships Matter
Experiences like these are only possible because of the professionals and organizations willing to invest time in the next generation of the workforce.
When students can interact with real professionals, ask questions, and participate in hands-on learning, career exploration becomes far more meaningful.
These partnerships help students:
- Discover career pathways they may not have considered
- Build confidence communicating with professionals
- Understand the skills employers value most
- Connect their education to real-world opportunities
Looking Ahead
Programs like the Career+ Locally Created Pathways initiative are designed to give students structured opportunities to explore careers, build skills, and prepare for the workforce before they graduate.
Thanks to the dedication of our community partners, students in Greater Lafayette are gaining valuable exposure to industries that play a critical role in supporting our communities. For many students, experiences like these are the first step toward discovering the career paths that may shape their future.
Thank you to all of our partners who helped make these bootcamps possible. Your time and mentorship are helping students see new possibilities for their futures!
Bio
Kimba Rund is a workforce training and career development specialist with a background in psychology and a focus on helping students connect education to real career opportunities. She holds a master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, which informs her work designing programs that support student growth, skill development, and long-term success. Outside of work, she enjoys yoga, reading, and spending time with her family, husband, and two dogs.
