CAREER SUMMIT

for youth and young professionals

ready to learn more about you and what you want to do?

The Career Summit is a four-day playshop for young people who want to explore careers-industries and build job readiness skills. This event centers on teens and recent graduates—ages 16 to 26—who want to learn, grow and explore their professional potential.

the next career Summit takes place at University of Oregon: July 2025.

confidence

NOT sure what you want to do?

Do you have to know what you want to do yet? NO. It’s ideal for job hunters and students who are still deciding what path to pursue. We can help build self awareness. Come prepared to learn more about your interests, skills and passions.

have a direction, but need to verify…?

Do we tell you what you should do? NO. We walk through steps to help you discover your interests and validate YOUR decisions. It’s your chance to pause and think thoughtfully about your next steps.

career consultation

why attend?

New to the workforce? At this event, we explore careers-industries and build job preparedness skills. This includes finding your professional purpose, getting hired, building a fulfilling career and pursuing education-advancement opportunities.

The Career Summit covers:

Careers: How to find and follow your interest. How to stand out and show your value.
Credibility: Job or opportunity searching. Online profiles. Resumes and applications. Cover letters. Elevator pitches and interviews. Professional attire and etiquette. Headshots.
Culture: Work ethic and attitude. Integrating in teams. Adaptability. Adjusting expectations. Resilience. Speaking up.
Collaboration: Learning how to lead and be led. What's your leadership style? How to work well with others.
Connections: Choosing a coach or mentor. Networking and building connections. Leveraging your network. How to help others succeed.

collaboration

how it works

For four days at The Career Summit, you will stay and study on a college campus… Your dorm, meals and materials are covered with registration.

We go beyond lectures. Each element of The Career Summit includes multi-sensory learning, interactive exercises and hands-on activities—designed to engage every type of learner.

Led by local business leaders, the day incorporates work-life simulations, practice interviews and more. Mentors help guide us through professional development activities and career-industry workshops. Potential employers share current job openings and opportunities.

college exposure

who should attend?

Students and entry-level professionals, ages 16 to 26, are welcome.* This four-day career and industry exploration event is specifically designed for:

High school students who are 16 and older.
College-age students exploring majors or working toward a degree.
Entry-level professionals who are new to the workforce.

*UPLIFT Leadership does make exceptions for highly motivated students under 16 or over 26. Please contact us to inquire.

connections

what are students saying about The Career Summit?

testimonials

“I am so thankful for having the opportunity to come to the conference. Before coming, I was unsure and scared about how to approach interviews and look for jobs. I gained so much from the conference and all the different presenters. Now I feel much more prepared and confident for my next steps as I look for a job.”

— Ashley M.

community

let’s learn!

All young people should have access to programs that enhance education, employment and economic opportunities—regardless of financial circumstances. If you can’t afford to pay, this event is free, thanks to our sponsors; if you can contribute, we appreciate your support.