This month we’re spotlighting six employers — with videos, real pathways, and live roles — all creating clear starting points for students.
Every day, we hear the same thing from schools: “Students want direction, but they don’t know what their options actually look like.” That’s exactly where we come in.
At Explore Careers, we work with employers across the U.S. to bring real, visible career pathways into schools — not when students are applying, but while they’re still deciding.
This month, we’re spotlighting employers across skilled trades, education, manufacturing, science, and essential services, all creating clear starting points for students:
A hands-on pathway for students ready to build careers and make an impact in their communities.
Groundworks is creating opportunity and redefining career paths in the trades, offering a viable alternative to a four-year college degree, even for candidates with no prior experience.
For the past two years, Groundworks has partnered with Mike Rowe, former host of the hit series “Dirty Jobs,” for the Go Below with Rowe series. Throughout his career, Rowe has shone a light on the skilled trades and the people who keep our country running.
Meet Victor | Groundworks EmployeeGroundworks · Plays on YouTube“Groundworks is growing at a time when a lot of companies are pulling back. But it’s not just that they’re growing — it’s how. They’re giving folks a real stake in the outcome. Not just creating jobs but building leaders. Anyone willing to show up, learn a skill, and take pride in their work gets a chance to own their success.”
— Mike RoweGroundworks provides a strong, hands-on pathway into a high-demand skilled trades career.
A direct pathway into childcare and teaching, with real experience in schools.
Bright Horizons is creating early entry points into education and childcare, with roles and programs available from age 16.
This is a strong pathway for students who enjoy working with others and want to build confidence through hands-on experience.
Grow Your Potential in a Teaching CareerBright Horizons Careers · Plays on YouTubeBright Horizons also runs a National Internship Program, giving students direct exposure to Early Childhood Education. Their “High School Takeover” events are bringing career exploration directly into schools, with opportunities now opening to more schools interested in participating.
A behind-the-scenes look at how buildings are designed and built.
ClarkDietrich is giving students a direct look into careers across manufacturing and maintenance.
This is a strong pathway for students interested in how things are built, from design through to production and installation.
Working at ClarkDietrichExplore Careers · Plays on YouTubeA hands-on entry point into life sciences and research.
Charles River is opening up pathways into life sciences, giving students early exposure to careers in research and animal care.
This is a strong fit for students interested in science, healthcare, or working with animals in a professional environment.
Inside the Career of an Animal Care TechnicianExplore Careers · Plays on YouTubeClear, step-by-step progression from entry-level roles into leadership.
Republic Services is giving students visibility into one of the most structured and reliable career pathways available across essential services. Their career roadmaps clearly outline how students can start in an entry-level role and progress over time into specialized and leadership positions.
Maintenance Pathway: Technician Apprentice → C Tech → B Tech → A Tech → Shift Lead → Maintenance Supervisor
Operations Pathway: Driver Trainee (CDL) → CDL Driver → Operations Supervisor
Republic Services Technical InstituteRepublic Services · Plays on YouTubeWith structured training programs, including technician apprenticeships and driver trainee pathways, students can build practical skills while working toward long-term career growth. For students looking for clear direction, real progression, and a career that plays a critical role in keeping communities running, Republic Services provides a strong and visible pathway forward.
A hands-on pathway into irrigation, landscaping, and long-term field careers.
Yellowstone Landscape is offering a clear entry point into the skilled trades through its Irrigation Trainee Program, designed for students ready to step into hands-on, outdoor work. This program provides a structured starting point for individuals looking to build practical skills while gaining real-world experience alongside experienced technicians.
Career Advancement in the Landscape IndustryYellowstone Landscape · Plays on YouTubeThis is a strong pathway for students who prefer practical work, enjoy being outdoors, and want to build a long-term career in a growing, in-demand industry.
Three standout entry points our partners are hiring for right now.
Maintain and repair vehicle wash equipment on-site — troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and electronic systems. Perform inspections, replace parts, run system checks, and provide basic training. Hands-on technical work with regular travel, customer relationship building, and responsibility for tools, parts, and service reports.
View this role Job of the MonthInspect railroad wheels for safety and quality using visual, ultrasonic, and magnetic testing to identify surface and internal defects. Operate inspection equipment, record data, and maintain high manufacturing standards within a foundry environment — a strong fit for students interested in manufacturing, engineering, or quality assurance, with clear pathways to grow within the rail industry.
View this role Job of the MonthWork outdoors maintaining lawns and landscapes — treating grass, shrubs, and green spaces across residential and commercial properties. Build skills in equipment use, plant care, and environmental services, with full training, certification support, and clear growth pathways at the largest lawn care company in North America.
View this roleBelow are our employer partners, all actively looking to connect with your school and engage your students.
If you’d like to invite any of them to deliver a career talk or visit your school, simply complete the form below. You can also explore their profiles on our website to discover the wide range of career pathways and roles available to your students — both now and after graduation.
