Local businesses power career exploration for youth and shape tomorrow’s talent today
When youth have access to career exploration early in their career journey, it gives them the opportunity to make informed decisions about their future. In fact, 74% of high school students believe it is important to have career plans determined when they graduate. But do they know what career options are available and what industries are growing in Central Florida?
To help them answer that question, Central Florida high school students are getting a unique glimpse into their future through CareerSource Central Florida’s (CSCF) High School Career Express program. The program takes 100 students from local high schools to participate in a ten-week program exploring career paths across key industries such as construction, healthcare, hospitality, finance, IT, and the public sector.
Launched in 2024 and funded by Orange County Government’s Level Up Orange program, High School Career Express connects students directly with industry leaders, mentors, and hands-on demonstrations at each visit. Along the way, participants build practical skills, expand their professional networks, and gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities ahead.
The program is equally beneficial for participating businesses as it is an opportunity to build awareness about their industry, inspire the next generation of talent, and establish early connections with future employees.
Michele Daugherty, president & CEO of ABC of Central Florida shares why is it important for them as an organization to participate in the program and expose students to their industry. “CareerSource High School Express is more than a career fair – it is a critical gateway to opportunity. By bringing students face-to-face with real careers, real employers, and real pathways to success, the High School Express Program connects education to the industry in a way that shapes the future, strengthens our workforce, and ensures our region’s talent and pipeline remains strong for generations to come.”
High School Career Express impact
Since its launch, the High School Career Express program has:
Served 375+ students from nine Orange County High Schools
Partnered with 50+ employers including Disney, KPMG, Addition Financial Credit Union, HCA Healthcare, Orlando City Soccer, Publix and more
98% of students discovered new career paths
91% of students felt prepared for the future after participating in the program
If your business is interested in helping shape the next generation of talent, here are a few ways to get involved:
Support the program: Sponsor an individual student or an entire cohort. Sponsorship helps cover participation costs, stipends, and professional development.
Become a host site: Invite students to your organization for hands-on exposure to your industry.
Hire HSCE students: Demonstrate your commitment to workforce development by hiring students who have completed the High School Career Express program.
Invest in the program: Make a financial contribution of any amount. Your investment supports career exploration, skill-building, and expanded access to meaningful career opportunities for youth across Central Florida.
Due to its success, the program will expand into Lake and Sumter Counties in the spring 2026.
Learn more about ways you can help strengthen Central Florida’s talent pipeline and expand career exploration for local youth. Donate Now | CareerSource Central Florida
CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting career seekers to meaningful jobs and cultivating skilled talent for businesses. Serving a five-county region including Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Sumter counties, CSCF is a leader in innovative workforce solutions for the growing and thriving Central Florida region.
