This fall marks a major milestone for The Career Academy (TCA)-ten years of transforming how students in Lincoln prepare for college and future careers.
Launched in 2015 through a visionary partnership between Lincoln Public Schools and Southeast Community College, TCA has provided thousands of students with the chance to explore high-demand career pathways while earning both high school and college credit. These opportunities save families thousands in tuition and give students a powerful head start toward their futures.
To commemorate the anniversary, TCA and the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools hosted a 10th Anniversary Open House, welcoming more than 120 students, families, alumni, partners, and supporters.
“It was so much fun interacting with partners, families, and former staff as we celebrated 10 years of partnership and success at The Career Academy,” said TCA Director Joshua Jones. “Our growth and success would not be possible without the continued partnership of the Foundation.”
Guests experienced TCA’s hands-on learning environment firsthand—from culinary students preparing hors d’oeuvres to construction and welding students demonstrating their craft. Student ambassadors from each pathway had the opportunity to speak about how their program has shaped their interests and goals. A silent auction featured student-made projects ranging from a whole storage shed to custom cutting boards, hammers, yard signs, and catered lunches—each demonstrating the hands-on learning happening daily at TCA.
“TCA was built on the idea that students deserve to ‘test drive their future,’” said Jones. “Thanks to our donors and business partners, students earn valuable college credit and gain real-world skills and experiences that prepare them for life after graduation.”
What sets TCA apart is its strong connection to the business community. More than 150 professionals serve on pathway support teams, advising, mentoring, and even offering internships. Industry support has also provided students with state-of-the-art tools and equipment daily. With 16 career pathways, including health sciences, engineering, information technology, skilled trades, business, and education, students graduate ready to meet critical workforce needs while building confidence in their abilities.
“TCA provides great experiences in the classroom with amazing curriculum through SCC, but sometimes we can go above and beyond because of the Foundation’s support,” Jones added. “More opportunities in the classroom, scholarship support, and the exposure to experiences they might not otherwise get—all thanks to the financial support we get in partnership with the Foundation for LPS.”
“Over ten years ago, the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools was proud to support the launch of The Career Academy, working alongside donors and community leaders who believed in giving students every opportunity to succeed,” said Natalia Wiita, President of the Foundation for LPS. “Today, we are focused on building even more partnerships with local businesses to continue celebrating student success and preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals for our community.”
Thank you to our Champion Pathway sponsors, Bison, Clever Brooks, Crete Carriers, and Willmar Electric. Your support will help us continue to support student success at TCA.
