INA, Ill. (May 8, 2026) — Rend Lake College recently welcomed hundreds of 7th and 8th grade students to campus for its annual Career Connections Fair.
Local students listening to future career options.
Students had an opportunity to explore future career paths by connecting with local employers, as well as Rend Lake College faculty and staff. Representatives shared insight into their careers, educational journeys and the skills required to succeed in their fields. This event encourages career exploration at an early age and helps students begin thinking about their future goals.
Throughout the event, students visited a variety of booths and listened to presentations highlighting different career fields. Presenters played an important role by sharing their personal experiences, answering questions and giving students a firsthand look into their careers.
Rend Lake College personnel represented several career areas including agriculture spray drones, early childhood education, industrial mechatronics, welding and other industries.
Local employers who presented during this event include:
Schools that attended Career Connections included Akin, Casey Middle School, Ewing-Northern, Hamilton County, McClellan, Sesser-Valier, Spring Garden, St. John the Baptist Catholic School, Thompsonville and Woodlawn.
The Career Connections Fair continues to strengthen connections between education and industry while inspiring students to begin exploring careers at an early age.
