High school students from Rockford and neighboring communities will have the opportunity to explore engineering careers and educational pathways close to home during “Engineering the Future” on Tuesday, February 24th.
The National Engineers Week event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. is hosted by Rock Valley College in its student atrium, 3301 N. Mulford Road. The event is sponsored by Fastenal and comes in partnership with Northern Illinois University’s College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (CEET).
Designed to connect local students with regional employers and educators, Engineering the Future will feature a career expo, a panel discussion with area business leaders, and opportunities to tour Rock Valley College facilities. NIU CEET Dean David Grewell will moderate the panel discussion.
“Rockford has a strong manufacturing and engineering presence, and this event helps students see how those local industries translate into real careers,” Grewell said. “By bringing together regional companies, Rock Valley College and NIU, we’re showing students clear, accessible pathways—from education to employment—right here in northern Illinois.”
“We’re proud to serve as a gateway to high-demand engineering careers for students in the Rockford region,” said Chase Budziak, Rock Valley College Dean of Career and Technical Education. “Engineering the Future gives students a chance to see what’s possible, meet employers who are hiring locally, and understand how they can start their education close to home and move seamlessly into a four-year degree or the workforce.”
From 10 to 11:30 a.m., students will be able to meet one-on-one with company representatives to learn about engineering roles, internships and future workforce needs. A panel discussion featuring leaders from local and regional businesses will follow at 11:30 a.m., offering insight into career preparation and the skills employers are seeking.
Lunch will be provided and the afternoon will include additional expo time and guided tours of Rock Valley College.
The event is open to students curious about engineering careers, educators and school counselors, families supporting future engineers and companies interested in engaging with the next generation of talent.
Registration is required and space is limited:
- Individual students: go.niu.edu/EngineeringtheFuture2026
- School groups: go.niu.edu/ETF2026
Companies interested in reserving an expo table should contact Bernie Luecke at bluecke@niu.edu.
In 2016, the NIU Engineering at Rock Valley College program began as a partnership between NIU, Rock Valley College and regional industry to build and nurture local engineering talent.
Students can earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering on the RVC campus, complete internships with area employers, and gain hands-on experience while benefiting from ABET-accredited curriculum and affordability. The program emphasizes industry connections, practical learning and strong career outcomes for graduates.
A similar program is scheduled the following week at College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn. You can learn more about that event here, `Engineering the Future’: On March 2nd, College of DuPage & NIU Partner to Showcase Engineering Careers.
