BASE Hosts Kids Career Expo, Connecting Youth With Real‑World Career Exploration Opportunities

Fort Atkinson, WI — Badgerland After School Enrichment Program (BASE) welcomed BASE kids & families, and community partners on May 13 for a Kids Career Expo, an interactive event designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and introduce children to a wide range of future career pathways.

The Kids Career Expo brought together local professionals, all of which were BASE parents, board members, supporters or community partners to create hands‑on learning stations where children could explore careers in fields such as finance, public safety, construction and trades, technology, arts and more. Exhibitors provided demonstrations, tools of the trade, and kid‑friendly activities that helped students imagine themselves in future roles. The event also encouraged students to ask questions, build communication skills, and learn about the education and training needed for different professions.

“The Kids Career Expo has been a great event for us. It gives children the chance to talk with different professionals and explore new career options at a young age” said Emily Yavuzcetin, Director of Operations at BASE. “When kids can touch, try, and talk with real professionals, they begin to see their own potential in new and exciting ways.”

The Kids Career Expo supports BASE’s mission to provide quality, out‑of‑school care that inspires local youth to become contributing, productive, and responsible community members. By offering enriching, developmentally supportive experiences, the event helps children learn, grow, and thrive beyond the school day. Through meaningful connections with community mentors and career role models, the Expo delivers intentional programming that fosters positive character development and gives youth unique opportunities to explore their interests and grow as individuals, while also strengthening local partnerships and inspiring the next generation of Fort Atkinson’s workforce.

“Our goal is to help kids see that their future is full of possibilities,” Yavuzcetin added. “Events like this show them that their interests and talents can lead to meaningful careers right here in our community.”

Since 2005, BASE has been a cornerstone of support for Fort Atkinson families, providing critical out‑of‑school‑time care that helps children learn, grow, and thrive. BASE services include after school and summer care for kids ages 4 & up. The organization’s new home at 1233 Janesville Ave establishes a centralized hub for its out of school time programs for kids ages 7 & up and also allows the organization to expand services, including licensed childcare for children ages 4–6 and flexible community space designed to bring people of all ages together.

For more information about BASE programs and upcoming events, visit www.basefortatkinson.org.