Launch Japan Career Day Recap

With more than 230 students / job seekers and 50 corporate and organizational representatives; JASI's inaugural "Launch Japan" Career Day was a big success!  This first state-wide initiative welcomed broad participation from the businesses and organizations representing the large footprint of "Japan in Indiana", connected and inspired students and bilingual individuals, and addressed workforce needs in a new way.  The "Launch Japan" Career Day was presented in partnership with the Consulate-General of Japan in Chicago, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, the Indiana Japan Chamber, and the Japan External Trade Organization, Chicago with generous support from the Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership.  

We are thankful to all those who dedicated their afternoon to participate, including panel speakers Kendall Millard (Barnes & Thornburg), Mindy Linn (Keihin North America), Stu Kaplan (Makuta Technics), and Julianne Medrano (Japan Information Center, Consulate-General of Japan in Chicago) who kicked off the day with a session on "Developing a Japan Connected Career".  Each shared their story about how Japan has influenced their lives and careers. 

JASI was also honored to welcome special guest Keiichi Uruga, Vice Governor of Gunma Prefecture, and a delegation from Gunma Prefecture, including Kan Shoda, Chairman, Shigeru Co., Ltd., parent of Heartland Automotive, one of the first Japan-invested parts manufacturers to locate in Indiana. Gunma Prefecture is also home to Subaru Corporation and many related businesses.  Ralph Inforzato, Chief Executive Director of JETRO, Chicago, gave the kampai toast in welcoming the Gunma Delegation.  

It is our hope that the Japan Career Day cultivated interest in Japan-related jobs.  We very much appreciate the positive feedback from participating organizations and look forward to building upon this year's success in future career fairs!