Nebraska Career and Technical Education Conference 2026

This session showcases how a small rural school used the design thinking model to create a high-impact reverse career fair. Students learned to market themselves by highlighting their skills, strengths, and areas for growth while employers approached them. Students prepared and presented professional materials including résumés, cover letters, business cards, and career artifacts. With judges, a keynote speaker, and a formal meal, the high-stakes event provided students an authentic yet safe environment to practice communication, professionalism, and self-advocacy skills. Participants will leave with a replicable model for student-centered career readiness.