INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Workforce Development announced the state finalists advancing to the 2025 Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) National Career Development Conference (CDC) following the state competition held Friday at Ivy Tech Community College.
JAG CDC showcases Indiana’s top young talent as students from across the state compete in categories such as public speaking, business development, financial literacy and employability skills. Winners from today’s competition have the chance to represent Indiana at the National CDC, which brings together JAG students from across the country to demonstrate their career readiness, connect with employers and explore future opportunities, according to a provided news release.
“JAG Indiana continues to provide students with the skills and confidence they need to continue to succeed beyond high school,” said DWD Commissioner Richard Paulk. “Each year, we see incredible growth in our students as they prepare to take their talents to the national stage.”
Local 2025 JAG Indiana State CDC winners include:
• Chapter Commercial, 3rd – Tippecanoe Valley High School
• Chapter Social Media Campaign, 1st – Tippecanoe Valley High School
• Career Preparation, 2nd – Avery Friedberg, Warsaw Community High School; 3rd – Katelyn Martynowicz, North Manchester High School
• Employability Skills
1st – Maggie Onderko-White, North Manchester High School
• Project-Based Learning, 3rd – Lacey Dawson, Grace Hall, Aadyn Ousley, North Manchester High School
• Outstanding Senior, 1st – Makia Lucas, Warsaw Community High School
Looking ahead to the 2025 JAG National CDC, held April 24 – 26 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis, select Indiana winners compete against students from across over 30 states, showcasing their skills and leadership development gained through the JAG program at the national level. The students will have the chance to expand networks and gain exposure to various industries.
JAG Indiana is a state-based affiliate of the national Jobs for America’s Graduates program, dedicated to helping high school students overcome barriers to success and achieve graduation. The program teaches 88 career competencies, including critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills, to prepare students for college, careers, and beyond. Schools interested in implementing a JAG program are encouraged to visit in.gov/dwd/jag/.