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Explore

We have a wide range of career exploration opportunities to help you find your passion and prepare for your dream job. Our career exploration programs include internships, job shadowing, mentorship programs, informational interviews with professionals in various fields, career fairs, and networking events. Whether you’re a high school student or in middle school, we have programs and resources to help you explore different careers, gain valuable experience, and connect with industry professionals. Let us help you take the first step towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.

For more opportunities please  see the continuing education courses listed here.

Contact Amy Steenhoek with questions.

EVENTS & CAMPS

(Listed In Date Order)

Event: Hero Academy Camp

Date/Times: July 28 – Aug. 3, 2024
Location: Camp Dodge, Johnston, IA

Description: The Iowa Hero Academy Provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity for young women ages 16-18 in Central Iowa to explore careers in firefighting, policing and the military. This camp is run by the Des Moines Police Department, the Des Moines Fire Department and the Iowa National Guard. It is a 6 day, overnight camp designed to encourage young women to reach their potential by developing leadership skills, teamwork, and self-confidence. Activities include:

  • Hands on training in firearm simulations, defensive tactics, hydrant and hose activities, search and rescue drills
  • Ride along with DMPD on calls
  • Career Panels
  • Training drills in firefighting, law enforcement, military exercises and effective emergency decision-making

Cost:  Free

Registration: https://www.dsm.city/departments/fire/iowa_hero_academy.php

Application Deadline: April 1, 2024

Event: Nurse Camp

Dates: Pick one session
August 1 & 2, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: Iowa Methodist Medical Center (1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA)

Description: Students entering 7th and 8th grade: Join us for a 2-day immersive experience to discover what it is like to be a nurse. The camp will include First Aid & CPR Certification, hands-on skills labs, simulated bedside patient care, access to nurse role models, “amazing race- nurse edition,” escape room, and more!

Cost: $75. Scholarships are available. Space is limited so register early.
Registration: https://www.unitypoint.org/patients-and-visitors/classes-and-events?keyword=nurse%20camp&listPage=1
Questions: 515-241-6811

Event: Explore Auto/Diesel Day at DMACC

Date/Times: Friday, September 27, 2024 (9:00 AM – 1:30 PM, check-in starts at 8:30)
Location: DMACC Ankeny Campus – Building 13

This event is for high school students interested in exploring future educational and career options in the following areas: Auto Collision Technology, Auto Mechanics Technology, Diesel Technology, and our Manufacturer Based Internship Programs (GM ASEP, Ford ASSET, Honda PACT, and MOPAR CAP), which allow students to have a paid work experience while earning their 2-year degree. Students will have the opportunity to attend 5 interactive sessions with faculty and employers.

Participants are REQUIRED to wear closed-toed shoes and pants

Lunch: Provided
Cost: Free
Transportation: Provided by Ankeny Schools.
Registration: Explore Auto/Diesel Day Registration
Registration Deadline: Friday, Sept. 20, 2024

JOB SHADOW OPPORTUNITIES

(Listed In Alphabetical Order)

Company: Ankeny Fire Department
Description: The Ankeny Fire Department’s Ride-Along Program allows current Fire and EMS students to experience, firsthand, the satisfaction in helping our citizens during an emergency. This program provides a closer look at what firefighting and EMS are and how you can pursue this as a career.  Observers are welcome to schedule either a six or 12-hour shift Monday through Saturday, between 7 AM and 7 PM.
Request Form:  Ankeny Fire Department Ride Along Request Form and Information

Company: Ankeny Police Department
The Ankeny Police Department has established a community Ride-Along Program to enhance the relationship between the community and the Ankeny Police Department. This program is designed to be an educational opportunity for residents or business owners to view firsthand police practices, procedures, and activity within our community. Participants must pass a background check. Ride-along requests are granted at the discretion of the Ankeny Police Department. The rides usually last 2 to 4 hours and many observers prefer the busiest times of the day, which are 2 PM and 10 PM.
Request Form: Ankeny Police Department Ride Along Request Form and Information


Company: Blank Park Zoo
Are you thinking about working at a zoo someday but not sure what it’s all about or where to start? Have questions for current staff and keepers? Then a job shadow is just for you! Students will explore various career opportunities at the Zoo, learn about the mission of the Zoo and the importance of our conservation work and spend time working alongside the team of their choice. Additionally they will learn how all these areas work together to create a successful non-profit and fulfill the mission of the Zoo.
Request Form:  Blank Park Zoo Job Shadow Information and Registration Form

Company: Broadlawns
4-8 hour time frame. Provides students experiences to observe actual health care professionals. If you are interested in identifying and securing your job shadow experience, please see our approval process and requirements. In addition to the required application documents, job shadow applicants must also provide the following:
Proof of two MMRs or titer, Proof of TB test within the last year, Signed Medical Release (if under 18 years old) – this must be completed by a parent or guardian
All paperwork must be submitted at least 30 days in advance. Once all paperwork is submitted, you will be contacted within two weeks to schedule your job shadowing experience.
Request Form: Broadlawns Job Shadow Request Form

Company: MercyOne
We are happy to help coordinate a day and time for you to job shadow. We require that you send your request a month ahead as the process is subject to approval from the departmental managers. Also, note that a HIPPA, Confidentiality Agreement, Medical Disclosure & Screen Statement, and flu shot vaccination are required before you can job shadow at MercyOne Des Moines. Must be a junior in high school or older.
Request Form: MercyOne Job Shadow Request Form

Company: UnityPoint – Des Moines
Choose from the following experiences:

  • In-Person Interview (open to 16 & older to learn about job functions & responsibilities)
  • In-Person Observation (open to 16 & older. In-person observations consist of a designated team member showing various day-to-day job responsibilities in the area of your choice)
    Observations available
  • Virtual Interview (Open to those 14* years of age and older to learn about job functions & responsibilities)
    Request Form: UnityPoint Des Moines Job Shadow Request Form

TRAINING PROGRAMS & WORK EXPERIENCES

(Listed In Date Order)

Iowa Insurance Division Internship
Who: High School Juniors or Seniors. Must be at least 16 years old.
When: A 10-week program beginning approximately June 3, 2024
Where: IID Office located at 1963 Bell Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa
Apply: Please submit your resume by January 15, 2024. For more information or to apply please send your resume and cover letter with attention to Linda Heintz at internships@iid.iowa.gov

This paid internship will allow you to gain real world experience in the insurance industry through an internship as an insurance regulator. A student interested in areas of accounting, actuary science, computer science, data analytics, mathematics, economics, marketing, insurance or securities sales, investigations or prosecutions of administrative insurance law violations, criminal fraud investigations, insurance legislation and rulemaking, or communications may find this unique opportunity extremely appealing. Interns will receive one-on-one mentorship, personalized training, early exposure to a possible career pathway and the opportunity to earn an Associate Professional in Insurance Regulation Designation.

MidAmerican High School Summer Internships
Date: Summer 2024
Description: Power up your future with a one-of-a kind internship at Midamerican Energy. Build up your resume and gain professional experience, while working beside our expert staff who support front-line operations, customer service and business administration. Earn $16/hour with the opportunity to work up to 40 hours a week throughout the summer. Develop skills in areas like:

  • Accounting
  • Administrative
  • Customer Operations
  • Data Entry
  • Mapping
  • Research

Requirements: Must be 16 years old. Essay. Letter of Recommendation. Parent/Guardian Consent Form.
To Apply and for More Information: Email hsinternship@midamerican.com.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office: National Public Safety Cadets (Open the cadet flyer  for more details).
Description: Public safety cadets is a nationally recognized organization that partners with law enforcement agencies to provide training and practical experiences, and other support that will better prepare young adults to make an informed decision about a career in the public safety sector.

  • Membership open to young adults interested in a career in law enforcement.
  • Must be a graduate of the 8th grade and 14 years old.
  • No-cost membership and uniforms provided.
  • Silver cord hours recorded and provided to your school.
  • Month training sessions, community outreach events and activities, job shadowing, ride-alongs
  • GPA must be higher than 2.0
  • Background check required
  • Virtual Interview (Open to those 14* years of age and older to learn about job functions & responsibilities)

Application: For details, please review the  interest letter and application from Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Questions can be directed to : communityrelations@polkcountyiowa.gov or 515-286-3015.

Des Moines Police Department Explorer Post #21
Description: Career oriented program aimed at preparing teenagers for the future. This program is for 12 to 19 years old. The Explorers get hands on experience with:

  • working with police officers
  • experience with police equipment
  • the different areas within the police department
  • attend meetings
  • attend conferences
  • enter competitions
  • assist with recreational activities

Application: You can reach SPO Nathan Nemmers at NGNemmers@dmgov.org for questions or to sign up.

Iowa Communications Network: Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council
Description: Our Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC) is an opportunity for high school students to discuss broadband and technology topics, learn about Iowa technology companies, discover careers, and network with peers. No advanced technical knowledge is required.

We are interested in hearing from students who are passionate about technology whether it be…apps, gaming, cybersecurity, fiber optics or something else. This opportunity will introduce students to a variety of technology aspects that are around Iowans each day.

Students obtain a cybersecurity certification, interact with industry leaders, start building their networks, and can add participation to their college applications or resumes.

Know a student who is interested? Here’s what they need to know.

  • Students entering 10th – 12th grades may apply.
  • Monthly meetings by video conference on the second Tuesday at 2 PM.
  • SYBAC runs September 2024 through April 2025.
  • Students: Submit a Membership Application.
  • Teachers: Complete the Teacher Recommendation.

To learn more visit: https://icn.iowa.gov/outreach/sybac?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Sam’s Club High School Internship
Date: Summer 2024

Description: Sam’s Club is currently offering a 10-week Summer Internship for high school students. This internship will give students valuable work experience in the retail industry with emphasis on customer service skills, technology-enabled services, and interpersonal relationship skills. In addition to working during the program, the associate will have access to many benefits at Sam’s Club, including associate discounts, financial wellbeing instruction, and access to our Live Better University education options. Live Better U is our partnership with Guild Education that allows your students to work for Sam’s Club while enjoying no-cost college tuition to several universities where they can earn a degree of their choosing in 30+ fields.

  • $16/hr pay
  • FREE college degree opportunities, great benefits, networking, and exposure to business world programs
  • Students will need a committed work availability from 16-30 hours/week

To Apply and for More Information: Member Frontline – High School Intern  |   Sam’s Club Internship Brochure