Applied Sciences, Technology, Engineering & Manufacturing Career Exploration

Types of careers in this pathway include: engineers, architects, construction roles, computer software developers, CAD drafters, diesel mechanics, transportation careers, scientists and more!

Explore the opportunities listed below, when you find the career exploration event you'd like to attend, write down its name so it is handy when you fill out your application.

How To ApplyApply Now

 

Career Exploration Experiences

Do you have an interest in the automotive recycling industry? Have you ever wondered what it takes to run a business like this? Sunline Parts, a division of the Cassill Motors organization, offers careers such as sales, inventory, purchasing, accounting, finance, management, operations, transportation/delivery, and IT. Sunline is building a culture that is breaking the stigma of the salvage world. If you are looking to grow your career and want to learn more about a unique aspect of the automotive industry, this job shadow is for you. Held in early March 2026. Cap of 15.

Are you interested in cars and like to get your hands dirty? If so, join the mechanics at Billion Auto for a hands on experience in the auto technician and auto mechanic career fields. After your tour of the dealership, you will be guided by the certified mechanics to inspect cars, change the oil and other typical day to day tasks. Hear from the managers about their career, training, and education. Cap of 5. Held spring 2026.

If you are interested in Chemistry, Microbiology, and Consumer Product Testing then this day is for you! Experience the life of a quality analyst at Frontier Co-op. Learn about the main testing methods used to ensure high quality spices, culinary herbs and essential oils. Gain insight into the diverse set of quality indicators, as well as regulatory requirements used at Frontier Co-op. Held Late February/Early March 2026. Cap of 12.

Are you interested in solving challenging engineering problems and creating unique exterior cladding solutions for companies like Kia Motors, Honda, Top Golf, and Porsche Motors, as well as local institutions like Kirkwood Community College or the University of Iowa? Explore a career in the exterior cladding industry. See firsthand how Engineering, CAD Design, and CNC Programming come together to create custom building facades around the county. See world-class performance firsthand from a local cladding manufacturer. Held Wednesday, Feb. 11th, 9:30-11:30am. Cap of 20.

Explore careers in mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineering. This is a great job shadow whether you have a general interest in engineering or you have a specific career in mind.  

Explore a variety of engineering careers including civil engineering, environmental engineering and environmental sciences (geology, hydrogeology and hydrology), GIS, transportation planning, community and regional planning, transportation engineering, water/wastewater engineering and flood protection.

Are you passionate about science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) — and curious how these fields connect to agriculture? Join us for an immersive job shadow experience at the Southeast Research and Demonstration Farm in Crawfordsville, where you'll explore real-world careers at the intersection of STEM and agriculture. Learn more about becoming an agricultural or environmental engineer, agronomist, or a livestock specialist. Hosted in April or early May 2026. Cap of 10.

Do you enjoy being outdoors and helping others in your community? If the answer is yes, then this day is for you! Participants will learn more about the many vital, high paying jobs in the energy and utility industry. Careers such as line mechanic, meter technician, electrical engineer, and natural gas mechanic will be discussed. Equipment and tools used in the industry will be available to give participants the opportunity to “try their hand” at performing basic line worker tasks. Cap of 25.

Would you like to have the best office view in the state? Are you looking to travel and reach your financial goals within the tower and wireless industry? Then look no further and climb to the top of your career with Viking Maintenance. If you have experience or interest in construction, roofing, scaffolding, landscape, or being a farm hand, this job shadow is for you! Led by our CEO and VP of Procurement, you will receive hands-on experience with an opportunity of doing a short climb in our climate-controlled training facility. Careers such as tower technician, field supervisor, construction manager, and project manager will be discussed. Cap of 6.

Students with an interest in truck driving, or being a maintenance technician can visit our terminal in Homestead, IA.  Discussions with mechanics, shop foreman, and safety professionals will be included along with a tour of the facility as well as time to explore the inside cab of a truck and trailer. Held in the Spring 2026. Cap of 10.


How to Apply

If you are a First Time User follow these instructions
If you are a Returning User filling out a new job shadow application follow these instructions.
If you have already started applying, you may simply continue your existing application.