Recap of JAG National Training Seminar 2024: A Week of Inspiration and Growth in the Heart of Las Vegas
The JAG National Training Seminar (NTS) 2024 was a week full of energy, invaluable learning, and meaningful connections. Held from July 8th to 12th at the iconic Flamingo Las Vegas, this year’s NTS brought together the JAG National Network in an atmosphere of excitement and innovation. Despite the record-breaking extreme temperatures, attendees left inspired, equipped with deeper skill sets, and connected to a robust professional network of JAG specialists, managers, trainers, and partners from across the United States.
The week kicked off with the JAG Launchpad from July 8th to 10th. This pre-conference session, formerly known as Pre-NTS, offered classroom-style deep dives into specialized content led by industry experts and JAG National Faculty. Participants, ranging from new specialists to leadership and business staff, engaged in intensive courses to prepare for the incoming school year.
NTS Main Events: Learning and Engagement
From July 10th to 12th, NTS sessions provided attendees with valuable insights and practical knowledge. Attendees participated in an opening session, numerous workshops, panels, and a closing session. A standout feature was an interactive workshop simulating the challenges of living with limited resources. Participants navigated scenarios related to housing, food, healthcare, and transportation, gaining a firsthand understanding of systemic barriers to economic stability. This experience equipped them with actionable strategies to advocate for positive change and empower JAG students.
JAGCA President-elect Austin Small-Jones and President Frida Medrano Ibarra led a workshop where they shared their personal journeys to national leadership. Attendees were inspired by their stories of overcoming challenges, celebrating successes, and leading at the national level.
Austin Small-Jones also contributed to a panel on the role of AI in education and workforce development. The discussion explored how AI can automate routine tasks, allowing staff to focus on mission-critical work while addressing safety, security, and ethical considerations.
Celebrating Excellence
The Opening and Closing Sessions of NTS were marked by the celebration of outstanding members within the JAG National Network. Awards were given for exceptional performance, including:
- 6-of-6 National Network Award: Recognizing states, regions, and programs that exceed all six of JAG National’s performance metrics, including graduation and employment rates. This year, 72 JAG programs from across the United States were awarded this prestigious honor, highlighting their dedication to fostering academic achievement, career readiness, and lifelong success among youth.
- 5-of-5 Non-Senior National Network Award: Honoring affiliates, regions, and programs achieving performance metrics for Middle School and students in grades 9-11.
- Outstanding Specialists: Acknowledging specialists who go above and beyond in their roles, with recipients receiving a monetary award and certificate.
Additional recognitions included Scholarship Awards, High Performers, and Peak Performers, celebrating extraordinary service and outstanding results within the JAG Network.
Esteemed speakers such as Tony Kopetchny, CEO of Parsons TKO; Steven J. Smith, SHRM-CP, PHR from ApplicantPro; Katie McDonald, an Education Consultant from ESSDACK; and Brandie Dawson, Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at Valvoline Inc., shared their expertise. Their insights on talent development and strategic leadership enriched the seminar, inspiring attendees to implement innovative solutions in their respective roles.
Impact of JAG
JAG’s impact on high schools and middle schools nationwide is profound. In 2023, JAG served 79,228 students in 1,528 programs across 36 states. On average, JAG students face 11 challenges, ranging from poverty to past trauma. Despite these obstacles, the graduation rate for JAG seniors is an impressive 96%, with some states reaching 100%.
NTS is crucial for fostering innovation, collaboration, and networking. It provides essential training for JAG specialists, who are often teachers in the classroom, as well as JAG managers, funders, stakeholders, and employer partners. The seminar helps attendees stay ahead of educational and workforce trends, ensures they are equipped with the latest tools and strategies, and strengthens the community bonds that are vital for supporting JAG’s mission.
Looking Ahead
As participants depart Las Vegas, the echoes of NTS 2024 continue to resonate. Armed with new skills, expanded networks, and a renewed sense of purpose, JAG members are poised to drive meaningful change and empower the next generation of leaders across America.
In closing, NTS 2024 exemplified the spirit of JAG—transforming challenges into opportunities, and fostering excellence at every turn. Here’s to the continued success and impact of Jobs for America’s Graduates, shaping futures and building brighter tomorrows.
Stay connected with JAG for updates on upcoming events and initiatives that continue to elevate our mission.