Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates

Did you know?

iJAG serves more than 11,000 students across Iowa and Illinois each year, helping young people develop career readiness skills, explore career pathways, connect with employers, and prepare for successful futures.

Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, work-based learning opportunities, and individualized support, iJAG is empowering the next generation of leaders, workers, and community members.

Together, we're building stronger students, stronger communities, and a stronger workforce.

iJAG iMPACT Hear from students across Iowa about how iJAG has impacted their li...

⛳ Big news! iJAG is proud to be part of Birdies for Charity through the Principal Charity Classic!

This incredible program gives supporters the chance to help Iowa students while increasing their impact through donations. Every gift is matched & helps us continue preparing students for successful futures through leadership development, career readiness, and work-based learning opportunities.

Catch us at the Wakonda Club June 10 - 14 for the Principal Charity Classic, a PGA TOUR Champions event!

Have your impact doubled by making a gift today! ijag.org/donate

Workforce Partner Wednesday 💪🏼
Thank you to Broadlawns for investing in Iowa's future workforce.

This spring, DSM Hoover High School iJAG students had an incredible opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals from Broadlawns Medical Center.

On April 1, Dennis Henderson visited the classroom to share information about Broadlawns' programs, application process, next steps, and what selected students can expect throughout the experience. Students gained valuable insight into career pathways in healthcare and the opportunities available to them. Then, on April 22, three Hoover High School juniors and seniors were selected to visit Broadlawns for an interview experience, taking the next step toward exploring careers in the medical field. Des Moines Public Schools

A huge thank you to Dennis Henderson and the Broadlawns team for investing in our students and helping them build confidence, connections, and career-ready skills!

Interested in partnering with iJAG and having opportunities for students? Send us a message!

🎉 Celebrating the first year of our partnership with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa Workplace Mentoring Program!

Throughout the 2025–26 school year, students from Des Moines Public Schools North High School visited Holmes Murphy each month to build relationships, explore careers, and develop professional skills.

Together, 21 students and 20 Holmes Murphy employees participated in this inaugural program. Thank you to everyone who helped make the first year a success—we look forward to what's ahead!

⛳️ Gather your foursome and join us for the inaugural iJAG iMPACT Invitational!

Whether you're looking for a fun day on the course, an opportunity to network with community leaders, or a chance to support Iowa students, this event is for you.

Every swing helps create opportunities for young people across Iowa as they prepare for successful futures in school, work, and life.

Team spots are already starting to fill up! Reserve your spot today: ijag.org/events/ijag-impact-invitational

What a great day at Des Moines Prep! 🎉

Our President/CEO, Dr. Wendy Mihm-Herold, and Des Moines Area Community College Interim President Dr. Liang Chee Wee had the opportunity to visit and learn more about the incredible work happening through our partnership and co-curriculum. Students are thriving in our iJAG program with a focus on study skills and college preparation.

A special shoutout to Stella Whitlatch and Liliana Kowlessar for leading such an outstanding tour and sharing what makes Des Moines Prep such a special place to learn, grow, and prepare for the future. Truly inspiring! 💙

🎓 🎓

Meet Jocie Parks, Class of 2026 GMG Community Schools!

This summer, Jocie will attend Capri College Waterloo to pursue her dream of becoming a Nail Technician. Her long-term goal? Becoming a licensed Nail Tech and opening her own business!

Jocie shared that iJAG helped her grow professionally by giving her the confidence to speak with businesses and adults in a professional setting.

One of her proudest accomplishments was attending NCDC and placing 9th — an achievement that reflects her dedication and hard work!

Her advice to younger students: “Go into iJAG open-minded because it really does give you so many opportunities to help you with your future and to be successful in and out of school.”

We can’t wait to see all you'll accomplish! 🌟

🎓 “You’ll never know if you never try.” — Josh

Through iJAG, Josh discovered that growth doesn’t always require a roadmap — sometimes it starts with believing in yourself and taking initiative. “iJAG has impacted my mindset by showing me that I can go and learn and develop skills in my career of interest on my own.”

From building engineering skills to developing confidence in his future, Josh embraced every opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. He credits iJAG for helping students strengthen both soft and hard skills while providing support every step of the way.

Next stop: BYU, where Josh will pursue his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering! ⚙️📚

We’re proud of you, Josh, and excited to see all the amazing things you’ll accomplish.👏

Congratulations to these South Hardin High School iJAG students who have officially committed to careers in the skilled trades!

During a special signing ceremony at Build My Future in April, students celebrated their post-graduation plans alongside their iJAG Career Education Specialist and local apprenticeship partners.

🎓 Peyton will begin a skilled lineman program leading into an apprenticeship at Midwest Line College.
🎓 Bo and Jaxon will attend Ellsworth Community College for the welding apprenticeship program.

We are proud of these students and excited to see all they accomplish in their future careers!