Landing a great career requires more than specialized or technical skills. It also depends on how individuals present themselves, interact with others and navigate professional environments with confidence and clarity. These future-ready skills, including networking, effective communication, and professional presence are core components of Bloomington high schools’ business electives and DECA programs.

These classroom lessons were brought to life at the recent Bloomington Empowers Networking and Leadership Conference, hosted by our partners at SICK, a Bloomington-based sensor manufacturer. More than 80 Jefferson and Kennedy students participated, eager to learn directly from local business professionals and community leaders.

The event featured nationally recognized speaker and corporate trainer, Stevie Ray, who led students through interactive exercises designed to push them beyond their comfort zones. By engaging in these real-world scenarios alongside industry professionals and peers, students gained experience in the art of interpersonal connection and professional networking.

The conference is one of the many ways Bloomington Public Schools empowers students to shape their own futures. From career and college fairs, a new Industry and Innovation Day, weekly speakers visiting schools, and check-ins with counselors, BPS is committed to providing every student with the experiences and insights they need to explore their potential. By bridging the gap between the classroom and professional world, we ensure our graduates leave BPS ready to lead, innovate and excel.