One of the greatest ways to strengthen our workforce isn't years down the road — it's happening today.
The Janesville Business Academy (JBA) is preparing high school students to become the next generation of business professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders. Through partnerships with local employers, students gain real-world experiences that connect classroom learning with the careers waiting for them right here in Rock County.
One of the most impactful ways local business leaders can get involved is by serving as a mentor.
Why Mentorship Matters
Every successful professional can point to someone who invested in them along the way.
For Janesville Business Academy students, that person could be you.
Mentors help students explore career paths, answer questions about the workplace, develop professional skills and build confidence as they prepare for life after graduation. These relationships give students a firsthand look at what success looks like while helping them better understand the opportunities available in our community.
Just as importantly, mentoring helps strengthen the pipeline of future employees and leaders who will shape the Janesville region for years to come.
READY TO GET INVOLVED? FILL OUT THE QUICK FORM ON THIS PAGE
What's Involved?
Many professionals are interested in mentoring but worry about the time commitment.
The Janesville Business Academy has designed the program to be meaningful while remaining manageable. Mentors are asked to:
- Complete a School District of Janesville background check
- Attend a brief mentor training session this fall
- Communicate with their student twice each month, with students initiating the conversations
- Meet face-to-face once per month, either in person or virtually
- Share professional experiences, workplace skills and career advice
- Serve as a positive role model while helping students expand their professional network
Suggested discussion topics are provided throughout the year, although mentors and students are encouraged to let conversations develop naturally.
Why Become a Mentor?
While students gain invaluable insight into the professional world, mentors often discover they benefit just as much.
According to the Janesville Business Academy, mentors frequently report that the experience:
- Expands their professional network
- Develops leadership and coaching skills
- Encourages creativity and fresh perspectives
- Increases job satisfaction
- Provides an opportunity to "gain by giving"
- Helps develop the next generation of professionals
Mentoring is an opportunity to share your experience while gaining new perspectives from tomorrow's workforce.
Help Build Janesville's Future
At Forward Janesville, we believe workforce development begins long before someone submits a job application.
Programs like the Janesville Business Academy create meaningful connections between education and industry, ensuring students understand the exciting career opportunities available in our own community. When local business professionals volunteer their time and expertise, everyone benefits—students, employers and the future of Janesville.
If you've ever thought about mentoring, now is the perfect time to get involved.
If you're interested, fill out the brief form on this page to get the process started.