#United States #Colorado Springs #Junior Achievement #Staples #Career Learning

Junior Achievement and Staples Expand Partnership

In a move set to elevate career-connected learning for students across the nation, Junior Achievement USA (JA) has announced an extension of its partnership with Staples. This initiative seeks to enhance economic mobility among students by equipping them with vital work and career readiness skills. Building on a history of collaboration, this partnership underscores the commitment both organizations have to shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

Tim Greinert, President of Junior Achievement USA, emphasized the importance of access to opportunities for today's youth, especially in an era heavily influenced by artificial intelligence (AI). He stated, "Today's young people must have the same access to opportunities as previous generations. With AI changing the work landscape, skills such as critical and creative thinking, collaboration, communication, and continuous learning are going to be essential." Greinert noted that the educational experiences provided by JA foster these necessary skills, and with Staples' support, they aim to reach an even broader student audience during this crucial time.

Rachel Huckle, CEO of Staples, echoed Greinert's sentiment, reinforcing the company’s mission to facilitate success in the workplace. She mentioned, "At Staples, helping people succeed at work and in business is at the core of what we do. We're proud to partner with Junior Achievement to help prepare the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders with the skills and confidence they need to succeed."

Over the next two years, the partnership will roll out several initiatives, including local program support and volunteer engagement in selected cities. Schools in major urban areas such as Boston, Orlando, Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas will benefit from these work readiness initiatives, aimed primarily at middle and high school students. Furthermore, Staples will play a vital role in national student events, including serving as the Presenting Sponsor for the Future Bound conference, a nationwide event set to take place at Boston University in June 2026. This event will feature competitions for over 300 students, highlighting the importance of career-focused education.

About Junior Achievement USA

Founded more than a century ago, Junior Achievement is dedicated to preparing students for future economic success. The organization collaborates with educators, employers, investors, and community leaders to promote robust educational experiences that equip young people with the skills necessary to navigate a rapidly evolving job market. JA reaches over 4.8 million students annually across nearly 100 U.S. markets and is part of a global network serving over 19.9 million students worldwide.

About Staples

With a legacy of nearly 40 years, Staples stands as a reliable force in providing comprehensive workplace solutions tailored for consumers and businesses alike. Headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts, the company offers an extensive range of products and services, including office supplies, technology solutions, and marketing services, effectively supporting the daily operations of businesses of all sizes. By harnessing top-tier supply chain capabilities and a dedicated team, Staples is committed to making the work environment more efficient and effective.

In conclusion, the expanded partnership between Junior Achievement and Staples heralds a new era of possibility for students across the United States. By focusing on career-connected learning, these organizations are ensuring that future generations possess the essential skills to thrive in an increasingly complex workforce.