Letter from the Owner
A FOCUSED FORCE
Dear Friends and Supporters,
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As the Owner and Chief Community Engagement Officer of Career Jam, I am excited to share our 2025 Career Jam Impact Report!
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Our theme this year is, “A Focused Force.” I have championed our small but mighty team many times this year. Internally, we are indeed a little group, but we are a force, and this impact report once again reflects what we are able to achieve through support from a community of educators, business owners, professionals, organizations, and institutions across the Capital Region. It is incredible to see what is accomplished when everyone comes together. Your ongoing support and enthusiasm is deeply appreciated, as we continue to carry the vision of Career Jam forward and empower students to imagine their future.
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Career Jam is mission driven and values aligned. Herein lies the focus. We put students first, always. Every decision we make is filtered through the lens of the student experience and our core values. Our mission, however, extends beyond students alone, creating impact across the entire community.
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The future is bright for the Capital Region! Opportunities abound, investments are being made, and institutions are strengthening, yet it is the people who shape the future of our community. Passionate individuals, who showcase their careers for the next generation workforce through engaging hands-on activities at each event, bring a bright vision to life for the students exploring the pathways available to them right here in our region. Not only are the students empowered to imagine their future, but because of who these students are and how they will step into the roles of their future to sustain and grow our region in the years to come, all involved are infused with hope.
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Thank you for a remarkable year and for all the ways, you, our community has
supported Career Jam. Because of your commitment, we are able to provide a
unique and immersive experience that inspires students, equips educators,
supports employers, and impacts communities.
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With gratitude and excitement for all that is ahead in 2026,​​
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Aarika Van Amburgh
Owner & Chief Community Engagement Officer
A Legacy of Impact
The Student First Project was established by Ryan Van Amburgh who lived a life rooted in faith, service, and a deep belief in the potential of young people. Even while battling cancer for eight years, his passion for empowering students and strengthening workforce development never wavered. That passion led to the founding of Career Jam.
As a visionary leader, Ryan positioned The Student First Project alongside Career Jam to sustain and grow the mission. Publicly launched just days before his passing on Christmas morning in 2023, it carries his vision forward. The Student First Project expands access to career exploration and supports programs that help students imagine and pursue their futures.
Ryan’s legacy continues through every student reached and every opportunity created. By connecting people and organizations, he enabled incredible ideas to come to life, leaving a lasting impact on his community that, with continued support, will leave a powerful imprint on generations to come.
Please consider donating. Your contribution will further the mission of transforming the lives of students. Thank you for honoring Ryan's legacy with your generosity!
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Thank you to those who make this event possible!
MUNICIPAL SPONSOR
Saratoga County
HOST VENUE SPONSOR
Hudson Valley Community College
Siena University
TEC-SMART, HVCC North Campus
INDUSTRY LEADER SPONSOR
GlobalFoundries
NYSERDA
Pioneer
INNOVATION SPONSOR
STS Steel
STUDENT SUCCESS SPONSOR
Curtis Lumber
Regeneron
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INSPIRE SPONSOR
College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering
Glens Falls Hospital
NSH USA Corporation
NYSTEC IgniteU NY
Price Chopper & Market 32
Workforce Development Institute (WDI)
WORKFORCE SPONSOR
CSARCH
First New York Federal Credit Union
Gilbane Building Company
HMA Contracting
La Bella Associates
Plug Power
Teamsters Local 294
Turner Construction Company
HONORABLE MENTION
CDPHP
CDTA - Transported Students to Career Jam
Fidelis - Donated Scavenger Hunt Winner Gift
WWAARC - Assembled Student Swag Bags
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Career Jam would not be possible without our family, friends, community, and business volunteers, who dedicate countless hours to this incredible work. We are deeply grateful for their passion and enthusiasm as they join us in empowering students to imagine their futures.
