FJI Report

The FJI Report is Forward Janesville's quarterly magazine. The publication highlights important news, member businesses and our volunteers that make an impact in Janesville and Rock County.

Pathways to the Future

The workforce of tomorrow is sitting in our classrooms today.

In the newest issue of the FJI Report, we explore how businesses, educators and community partners are creating stronger connections between learning and opportunity — helping young people discover career pathways while building the talent pipeline our employers will need for years to come.

Our cover story takes an in-depth look at the partnership between Forward Janesville and the School District of Janesville, including the evolution of the Education Council, the Keep Kids Learning initiative and investments designed to strengthen student achievement and connect education with the needs of our business community.

We also step outside the classroom to examine the growth of work-based learning in Janesville. Programs including Craftsman With Character and Youth Apprenticeship are giving students opportunities to explore local employers, develop workplace skills and discover careers they may never have considered, while helping businesses build relationships with their future workforce.

Also in this issue:

• Quint Studer shares his perspective on why education — from early childhood learning to workforce development and civic education — forms the foundation of a vibrant community.
• Meet three Forward Janesville members helping create pathways for the next generation: Dr. Tracy Pierner of Blackhawk Technical College, Cortney Michaels of United Alloy and Jerad Clark of the Janesville Jets.
• Our “How Did I Get Here?” series features Lynnette Wirth of Basics Co-Op Natural Foods and Coldwell Banker The Realty Group and the winding career journey that has shaped her approach to business and community.
• Get a preview of Forward Janesville’s 2026 Annual Dinner, “A Story Worth Telling. A Future Worth Building.,” coming October 22 at the Woodman’s Sports & Convention Center.
• Meet the newest members of Forward Janesville and celebrate members reaching Quarter Century Club milestones.

As always, the FJI Report highlights the people, businesses and organizations helping shape the future of Janesville and Rock County.

Explore Issue 2 of the 2026-27 FJI Report and see how our community is creating pathways to the future.

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