Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) eighth-grade students explored a wide range of career possibilities during the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 JOCO WORKS World of Works (WOW) event. During the two-day annual event, eighth-graders from JCPS middle schools visited the Johnston Community College (JCC) campus to meet with representatives from more than 40 Johnston County-based industries and exhibitors.
Through hands-on activities and conversations with local professionals, students gained insight into regional industries, potential career paths, and workforce development programs. The event featured presenting sponsor Novo, along with representatives from various business and government entities, including Vulcan Elements, North Carolina National Guard, North Carolina Department of Transportation, and JCPS Fire Science Program.
“At Vulcan Elements, we’re doing more than manufacturing a critical component for the technologies that will define the 21st century; we’re rebuilding America’s advanced manufacturing workforce.
As part of that effort, we proudly sponsored our first JOCO WORKS WOW (Worlds of Work), where we introduced thousands of North Carolina middle schoolers to manufacturing opportunities in their community, including with Vulcan Elements. We’re proud to be part of this community as we create 1,000 manufacturing jobs in Benson.” John Maslin, CEO of Vulcan Elements
JOCO WORKS WOW gives students an inside look at the industries and professions available in Johnston County while encouraging them to think about their futures. Those with a particular field of interest can learn more about that profession. In contrast, those still exploring their interests have an opportunity to discover something new as they prepare for high school.
For Selma Middle student Yadiel Santana Bautista, it was his first chance to see the career opportunities available in Johnston County. Bautista moved from the Dominican Republic and was excited to be at JOCO WORKS WOW. “I want to learn about things I haven’t experienced yet, like the National Guard, agriculture, and tractors.”
As part of the event, each student received a JOCO WORKS WOW passport with a mission to visit every exhibitor, ask questions about their business or industry, and collect stamps along the way. The activity encouraged students to explore fields beyond their familiar interests and learn about a variety of professions. Those who collected all the required stamps were also entered into a prize drawing.
Each eighth-grader also received a small backpack filled with information about JCPS career pathways. Materials included examples of occupations, general education requirements, and average salaries across different industries. Exhibitors added to the experience by providing company-branded items for students to take home, giving them a tangible reminder of the businesses they encountered.
Many of the industries represented at JOCO WORKS WOW align in many ways with Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses available to JCPS students. Through a partnership between JCPS and JCC, the Career and College Promise (CCP) program introduces students to various career pathways as they continue their education and prepare for entry-level jobs. Through the program, high school students can take college courses, earn an associate degree, and graduate prepared to enter the workforce, potentially in careers showcased at JOCO WORKS WOW.
Since 2019, JOCO WORKS WOW has brought together the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce, JCC, JCPS, local government, and business leaders through an industry-led partnership. The initiative introduces students to local industries and helps address Johnston County's growing workforce needs.