Career Exploration

Career Accelerator Program

Student speaking to a professional to learn about different careers.

What is the Career Accelerator Program?

The Career Accelerator Program is a 10-week program that guides ninth and tenth grade high school students in the exploration of diverse career fields. Students engage in conversation with volunteer speakers from various industries to develop digital literacy and interpersonal skills while engaging with real-world technology applications. Upon completion of the program, students will be better equipped with a broad skillset for success in high school, college, and beyond.

A student networking with a professional

Upon completion of the program, students will be better equipped with a broad skillset for success in high school, college, and beyond. The program meets from September to November on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:45 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Who Can Join

CAP is open to ninth and tenth grade students at all levels of experience. Whether just starting to explore career options or looking to strengthen existing skills, the program meets students where they are.

2025 class picture

How to Get Involved

Students, volunteers, and industry professionals are all invited to participate. Students gain hands-on learning and career insight, while volunteers share their expertise and guidance to shape the next generation of leaders. Registration opens in August—join us and make an impact!

Program Details
Dates:
March 23, 2026
May 20, 2026
Category:
Career Exploration
Location:
Pi515 office
Incentive:
1-3 college credts
Age Range:
9th and 10th
Subscribe to Newsletter
Success! Thank you for signing up to our newsletter.
Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again.
Register for the Program Here
Registrations Coming Soon!
Student RegistrationVolunteer Registration
AI Challenge

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Pi515 AI Challenge.
Who can participate in the AI Innovation Challenge?
Any student attending college and pursuing an undergraduate degree in the state of Iowa. Participants are required to sign up in teams of 3-5 students.
I don't know how to code. Can I still participate?
Yes! This challenge was created to be accessible to students in any field of study, with or without a technical background or experience working with AI.
What criteria will be used to evaluate submissions?
Sign up to get more information on submission requirements and details pertaining to the challenge
What is expected of mentors?
Mentors are expected to share high-level advice and insights to inspire teams, not provide detailed plans or advice on using AI programs. The focus is on encouragement to foster creativity and problem-solving.
What AI programs and resources are available for teams?
Pi515 will provide access to AI programs, data sets, and all the resources students need to successfully complete the challenge. Sign up to get more information

Get Involved and Help This Program Grow

Your support helps expand access to meaningful learning experiences for students.

Two people laughing joyfully in a sunlit field of yellow flowers. The scene conveys happiness and a carefree, summery atmosphere.
Donate

Make a Donation to Our Cause

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis.