When Jake Dargo was an eighth-grader, his career trajectory was altered after attending SCK LAUNCH Experience. For him, getting to interact with members of the Bowling Green Police Department was a life-changing moment.
“I just thought it was fascinating,” he said, describing the experience of holding a riot shield and stepping into a SWAT vehicle.
Fast forward to 2026, Dargo attended the same event, but from a new perspective – as a BGPD Cadet. While training to become a police officer himself, he was able to inspire the next generation.
“We showed off our equipment to students interested in going into law enforcement,” he said. “It’s definitely been a great experience. I loved seeing how excited they are. I feel like I’m making a positive impact.”
Brian Moyers had a similar experience.
He attended this event as an eighth-grader in 2017, and now as a representative with the Warren County Water District. They set up a leak simulator and timed students as they fixed the leak.
“A lot of people don’t know what we do,” Moyers said. “And getting to tell them what we do throughout the community, it’s pretty cool.”
Experiencing both sides of this event was a full-circle moment, he said.
Dargo and Moyers were joined by 300 representatives from 55 businesses across South Central Kentucky for the 10th year of SCK LAUNCH Experience. In a span of two days at the Knicely Conference Center, they interacted with over 3,700 eighth-graders from 27 area schools, showing the students a world of career possibilities.
They explored potential career opportunities in various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, agriculture, public safety, education, healthcare, professional services, design, construction, and more.
SCK LAUNCH Experience continues to spark curiosity, build connections, and help students envision a future full of opportunities right here at home. Local businesses and educators agree, early exposure helps students make informed decisions about their high school pathways and future careers. Parents are encouraged to keep the conversation going and ask what sparked their student’s interest!
Thanks to all our partners, educators, and volunteers for helping make career dreams a reality!
Learn more about this event and other educational opportunities at scklaunch.com.
