Brainerd Chamber career expo bridges gap between students and meaningful careers

Finding skilled workers is one of the toughest challenges facing our members today. The Business Education Network is an employer-led initiative of the Minnesota Chamber Foundation designed to address Minnesota's workforce shortages. Earlier this spring, Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Career Exploration Day. Their career expo is not your average career fair.

Just over 2,500 students walked through Central Lakes College talking to local employers, learning about skill requirements, and how to get there. The 200+ businesses showcased their services and products through interactive displays and activities that resulted in students welding, building RC cars, playing marketing monopoly, and more.

Beyond the Career Expo, the Bridges connection program provides career awareness and experiences for students in their region. By partnering with 28 regional high schools and member businesses, they organize interactive business tours, classroom speakers, internships, and a variety of courses featuring real world experiences. The variety of programs are consistent touchpoints with students throughout their academic career creating opportunities for exploration and discovery.