Career Ideas Festival

The Career Ideas Festival, featuring Jim Wolfston, CEO of CollegeNET, is a celebration of innovation in career development, our valued partnerships, and a fantastic networking opportunity. This year, we are proud to spotlight the impact of social mobility in higher education and career pathways.

Event Schedule:
10 a.m. — Welcome and Keynote
Discover how higher education can transform lives with Jim Wolfston, CEO of CollegeNET. As the creator of the Social Mobility Index (SMI), Wolfston will discuss how institutions like Metro State are empowering economically disadvantaged students through affordable tuition and clear pathways to well-paying jobs. Learn how Metro State’s recent achievement—ranking 31st out of 1,204 institutions nationwide on the SMI—highlights its commitment to fostering equity and opportunity.

11 a.m. — Networking Reception
Connect with students, alumni, staff, faculty, and employer partners to build valuable relationships. Enjoy refreshments and conversations as you expand your professional network and explore ways to turn educational opportunities into impactful careers.

Jim Wolfston is a visionary leader in higher education and technology. As CEO of CollegeNET, he has revolutionized how universities assess their role in supporting social mobility. Through his work with the Social Mobility Index, Wolfston champions data-driven approaches to making college more accessible and equitable. His insights and dedication to reducing economic disparity resonate strongly with Metro State’s mission of empowering students from all backgrounds.

Questions about this event? Contact the Career Center at 651.793.1528 or email career.center@metrostate.edu. To receive disability accommodations for this event, please contact the Center for Accessibility Resources at 651.793.1549 or email accessibility.resources@metrostate.edu.