JobWorks, Inc. Hosts Hammond Central JAG Students for Hands-On Skilled Trades Experience

JobWorks, Inc. was excited to recently welcome students from Hammond Central JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) for an engaging, hands-on introduction to the skilled trades. Experiences like this are central to JobWorks’ mission — creating early exposure to career pathways that lead to sustainable, in-demand employment.

Learning by Doing

During their visit, students suited up in proper safety gear and stepped directly into practical, entry-level construction activities. Under the guidance of JobWorks staff and industry partners, students gained firsthand experience with foundational skills used across many skilled trades. Activities included measuring and cutting lumber, wiring basic electrical circuits, and safely operating entry-level tools.

By working through these tasks themselves, students were able to connect classroom learning with real-world applications — an essential step in building confidence and sparking interest in technical careers.

Connecting with Apprentices and Industry Professionals

In addition to hands-on activities, students had the opportunity to meet apprentices and local industry professionals who shared their own career journeys. These conversations provided valuable insight into what a career in the trades can look like, from starting out in training programs to advancing through apprenticeship and certification pathways.

Industry speakers emphasized the importance of trade schools, industry-recognized credentials, and hands-on learning as reliable routes to long-term career success. For many students, hearing directly from professionals working in the field helped demystify the skilled trades and highlight the wide range of opportunities available.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Talent

Exposure at this stage is critical. Programs like JAG play a vital role in helping students explore career options before graduation, and JobWorks is proud to support that mission by opening doors to workforce training and industry connections.

By introducing students to skilled trades in an interactive, supportive environment, JobWorks aims to inspire the next generation of electricians, carpenters, technicians, and construction professionals — careers that are essential to local economies and communities.

Building Pathways to Opportunity

JobWorks, Inc. remains committed to expanding career exploration opportunities for young people and strengthening the talent pipeline for high-demand industries. Hosting Hammond Central JAG students is one of many ways JobWorks partners with schools, employers, and community organizations to connect education to employment.

We look forward to continuing this work and creating more experiences that help students see what’s possible — and how to get there.