Partner News: Press Release – Careers in Gear 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rogue Workforce Partnership Announces 2026 Careers in Gear

A Career Exploration Event Connecting Thousands of high school students with local employers

MEDFORD, Ore. (December 18, 2025) – Rogue Workforce Partnership (RWP) is proud to announce the 2026 Careers in Gear career exploration event, taking place Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Jackson County Expo. This annual, hands-on experience is designed to introduce high school students to career pathways, local employers, and postsecondary opportunities across Southern Oregon and beyond. Careers in Gear brings together more than 2,000 students from regional high schools and more than 100 employers representing in-demand industries such as healthcare, education, technology, manufacturing, construction, transportation, natural resources, public safety, hospitality, military, and more. “This event is all about helping young people see what’s possible,” said Spencer McQueary, Rogue Workforce Partnership. “Careers in Gear gives students a chance to talk directly with employers, ask real questions, try out hands-on activities, and envision themselves in high-demand careers right here in Southern Oregon.”

Interactive, Hands-On Career Exploration

Unlike a traditional job fair, Careers in Gear focuses on interactive booths and demonstrations that help students experience what different jobs are really like. Employers are encouraged to bring tools, equipment, simulators, and engaging activities that demonstrate day-to-day tasks in their industry and highlight the skills, training, and certifications needed to pursue a career in their field. Careers in Gear is proud to bring Jackson County an immersive and experiential job fair that sparks curiosity and confidence in students exploring their futures.

Throughout the day, students have the opportunity to:

• – Meet one-on-one with employers and industry professionals
• – Learn about internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level roles
• – Discover how their interests and strengths connect to real careers

Event Registration

Careers in Gear is open to any and all Employers and organizations who would like to showcase their industry and nurture relationships with the future professionals of Southern Oregon. Careers in Gear is not open to the general public for student attendance. Student participation is coordinated directly through the regional high schools that register their classes or student groups to attend.

High Schools: Participation is open to all high schools across Southern Oregon. School leaders, counselors, and career coordinators will receive registration information from Rogue Workforce Partnership, or can email careersingear@rogueworkforce.org directly for details.

Employers & Organizations: For-profit and non-profit businesses across the spectrum of industries, training providers, colleges, and community partners are all invited to apply as exhibitors.

“Employers consistently share that Careers in Gear is one of the highlights of their outreach efforts,” said Stephannie Krunglevich, Interim Executive Director of Rogue Workforce Partnership. “It creates meaningful connections with students and helps young people understand that there are diverse, high-quality career opportunities available right here in the Rogue Valley.”

Event Details

Event: 2026 Careers in Gear – Career Exploration Event

Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026

Location: Jackson County Expo, Seven Feathers Event Center & Olsrud Arena =

Website: www.rogueworkforce.org

Hosted by: Rogue Workforce Partnership

Rogue Workforce Partnership (RWP) is a regional workforce development organization serving Jackson and Josephine Counties. RWP connects businesses, educators, community partners, and jobseekers to build a skilled workforce that meets the needs of local employers and supports a thriving regional economy. Through strategic partnerships, youth programs, employer engagement, and innovative initiatives like Careers in Gear, RWP helps ensure that Southern Oregon’s workforce is prepared for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

Media Contact

Ashley Lukaris | 541-292-2520 | careersingear@rogueworkforce.org