(LEFT) Tyler Bireley (Arrow McLaren Indy Car Team) greets Owen Joray as part of a mock interview experience for eighth-grade students at Hamilton Heights Middle School. (RIGHT) Itzlenny Rodriguez-Diaz (Ryan Fire Protection) interviews Jasmine Hossain as part of a mock interview experience for eighth-grade students at Hamilton Heights Middle School. (Photos provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
Posted By: The Reporter October 24, 2025
Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation
Over 140 eighth-grade students at Hamilton Heights Middle School (HHMS) recently participated in a dynamic mock interview experience designed to strengthen career readiness and build confidence. This hands-on opportunity gave students a chance to practice professional communication, present their resumes, and receive real-time feedback from local business leaders.
The event featured 12 professionals from respected organizations including Arrow McLaren IndyCar, The Hagerman Group, L & M Gardens, Meyer Najem, Ryan Fire Protection, and Will Power Bulldozing & Excavating. Their time, expertise, and encouragement created a meaningful learning environment where students felt seen, supported, and inspired to grow.
“We’ve started calling it a confidence-building opportunity,” said Connor James, Business Teacher and Reaching New Heights Coordinator at HHMS. “Because that’s exactly what it produces – students who feel more prepared, more capable, and more excited about their future.”
What does confidence look like? It looks like a student walking into a mock interview, résumé in hand, and walking out with new skills, fresh feedback, and a belief in their future. Thank you to our incredible business partners for making this moment possible: (from left) Harrison Massonne and Daniel Brewer (Meyer Najem), Itzlenny Rodriguez-Diaz (Ryan Fire Protection), Sarah Walker (Hagerman), Matt Mitchell (Will Power Excavation & Bulldozing), Tyler Bireley and Joell Vaca (Arrow McLaren Indy Car Team), and Connor James (HHMS). (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
According to post-event surveys, 98 percent of participating students reported feeling more confident and better equipped for future interviews. The experience not only introduced essential career skills but also helped students envision their potential in the workforce.
Hamilton Heights is deeply grateful to its business partners for investing in the next generation and helping shape a culture of readiness, resilience, and respect.
