Four Golden Bears shine at JAG state competition

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development announced the state finalists advancing to the 2025 Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) National Career Development Conference (CDC).

JAG CDC showcases Indiana’s top young talent as students from across the state compete in categories such as public speaking, business development, financial literacy, and employability skills. Winners from the state competition held Friday at Ivy Tech Community College have the chance to represent Indiana at the National CDC, which brings together JAG students from across the country to demonstrate their career readiness, connect with employers, and explore future opportunities.

“JAG Indiana continues to provide students with the skills and confidence they need to continue to succeed beyond high school,” said DWD Commissioner Richard Paulk. “Each year, we see incredible growth in our students as they prepare to take their talents to the national stage.”

2025 JAG Indiana State CDC winner from Shelby County include:

• Shelbyville High School’s Jose Mejia Caballero, Fatima Novoa and Giselle Vargas Garcia placed runner-up in the Project Based Learning category.
• Shelbyville High School’s Brooklyn Winkler placed runner-up in the Outstanding Senior category.

The 2025 JAG National CDC will be held April 24-26 at the JW Marriott in downtown Indianapolis. Select Indiana winners will compete against students from across 30-plus states, showcasing their skills and leadership development gained through the JAG program at the national level.

JAG Indiana is a state-based affiliate of the national Jobs for America’s Graduates program, dedicated to helping high school students overcome barriers to success and achieve graduation.

The program teaches 88 career competencies, including critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills to prepare students for college, careers and beyond.

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