ILLINOIS, April 26 - Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology co-hosts inaugural event

SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker had proclaimed the month of April as Innovation and Technology Month in Illinois. To celebrate this, the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) co-hosted the first CareerSpark STEAM Expo in Springfield. This hands-on, interactive work and career readiness experience for 8th grade students, inspired more than 700 students from nine school districts representing Central Illinois to explore exciting careers in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fields.

"It was great to see a spark in curiosity of young minds as they interacted with exhibits and explored the Expo," said Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology Acting Secretary and CIO Sanjay Gupta. "This event provided a platform for them to explore their interests, discover new possibilities, and open their mind to a future in the STEAM fields. We're eager to provide more opportunities for Illinois students in the future."

The event saw enthusiastic participation from students, professionals, and industry creating an atmosphere of inspiration, exploration and learning. Students used the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, interact with industry experts, and gain valuable insights from more than 50 exhibits into the world of STEAM careers.

"We know that 8th grade is a critical time in career exploration for young people as they prepare for high school," said Junior Achievement of Central Illinois President Mary Pille. "The CareerSpark STEAM Expo provides vital opportunities for students to not just envision, but actively engage with diverse career paths, igniting their curiosity as they plan their own path to success."

Caption for attached photo: Students interact with Amazon Web Services at the first CareerSpark STEAM Expo at the Illinois Orr Building in Springfield on Thursday, April 25, 2024.