Over 1,000 Students Attend EvCC's 2026 Student Career Conference

The annual event connects middle and high schoolers with professionals to inspire their future goals.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 6:23pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a repeating pattern of college textbooks and a graduation cap, conceptually representing the academic and career-focused themes of the Student Career Conference.The vibrant Student Career Conference celebrates the power of education and mentorship to inspire the next generation of leaders.Snohomish Today

More than 1,000 middle and high school students from Snohomish County and beyond attended Everett Community College's 21st annual Student Career Conference on March 26, 2026. The event featured keynote speaker Philip Jacobs, founder of Rebel Firm, as well as over 70 professionals who shared their college and career experiences with the students. The conference was sponsored by Molina HealthCare, Washington State University Everett, and Tulalip Tribes.

Why it matters

The Student Career Conference aims to inspire students by connecting them with professionals who share similar backgrounds and experiences, helping them see that their dreams are achievable. The event reflects EvCC's commitment to inclusion and student success, aligning with updated national guidelines.

The details

The conference included performances by Quil Ceda Tulalip Elementary School and DJ Rise, as well as panel discussions moderated by 49 EvCC students. Over 350 adults, including school representatives, chaperones, bus drivers, and nearly 80 volunteers, helped make the event a success.

  • The Student Career Conference was held on March 26, 2026.
  • The conference was first held in 2003.

The players

Philip Jacobs

The keynote speaker and founder of Rebel Firm, which supports leaders and teams through leadership development, racial equity, and entrepreneurial mindset building.

Bill Reed

A former EvCC accounting instructor who came up with the idea for the conference in response to changing Snohomish County demographics, education trends, and the economic impact of earning a college degree.

Carlos Veliz

A local business owner who helped organize the first Student Career Conference in 2003 and continues to be involved with the event.

Joe M. Davis II

An Everett Community College Trustee who spoke to a group of high school students about their educational and career experiences.

Dr. Steve Woodward

The Mayor of Mountlake Terrace who spoke to a group of high school students about their educational and career experiences.

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What they’re saying

“Over the years, we've seen the powerful impact of representation and mentorship in shaping students' aspirations. It's about showing them that their dreams are not only valid but achievable.”

— Bill Reed, Former EvCC accounting instructor

The takeaway

The Student Career Conference demonstrates Everett Community College's commitment to providing students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, with the resources and mentorship they need to envision and pursue their future goals. By connecting middle and high schoolers with professionals who share similar experiences, the event aims to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.