Local students visit Career Spark

[November 07, 2026] 

The 2026 Career Spark event hosted by the Lincoln Economic Advancement and Development (LEAD) was hosted at the Lincoln Park District on Friday, November 6th. Eighth grade students from around Logan County and neighboring districts were invited to attend.
 


LEAD CEO Uriah Kilgallin said the event introduces the students to careers around the area. It also helps them see the types of jobs available in Logan County and nearby communities.

Industries represented included advanced manufacturing, engineering and logistics, agriculture, food and natural resources, architecture and construction, arts, technology and communication, business and finance, education and training, government, law and public service, and health and life sciences.

To learn more about careers in the various industries plus the skills and training needed, students could talk to professionals from CEFCU, Rivian, Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Illinois Work Net, Lincoln Fire Department, Logan County Sheriff’s Department and Lincoln Park District.

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Teachers and students from the LCHS Lincolnland Technical Education Center shared information about programs like advanced metals, automotive technology, cosmetology, culinary arts and nursing 101. Future Farmers of America (FFA) members told students about agricultural courses and careers.

In another section, students could learn about the Land of Lincoln CEO program from current LLCEO students.

Faculty and staff from Heartland Community College had tables set up with information about courses and careers in Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, agriculture, science, technology, engineering, math and business.

LTEC Director Matt Puckett said as part of educational standards, eighth grade students are expected to attend a career fair like this one.

The Career Spark event was a good way for students to see what jobs are out there and how to prepare for these jobs.

2026 Career Spark slideshow

A robot dog created at Heartland Community College on display during the Career Spark event - video

[Angela Reiners]
 

 

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