Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is the event?
  • Dates: November 6–7, 2025
  • Location: Johnston Community College, Smithfield, NC
  • Time: 8:30am – 1:30pm each day

How much does it cost to participate?
Sponsorships begin at just $250 for a Workforce Partner level.

What’s expected from sponsors?
  • Create an engaging, hands-on exhibit highlighting your career field.
  • Provide staff to interact with students during the event.

What do you mean by a hands-on exhibit?
JOCO WORKS is a smart, practical, and engaging approach to career planning—and it’s developmentally appropriate, too. We invite sponsors to lead short, interactive activities, demonstrations, or contests that link education to real-world careers—all within just 3–4 minutes.

What is Careerverse?
Careerverse is on online learning platform with workforce and educational content. Students use it in the classroom leading up to the event as one way to understand local businesses, jobs, and careers that will be featured at the in-person event in November. This helps them prepare for meaningful engagement at the event.

What is the time commitment for sponsors?
Sponsors typically invest 18 to 20 hours for JOCO WORKS, which includes:
  • Event participation: Two full days in November
  • Set-up day: The day before the event at Johnston Community College (JCC)
  • Pre-event planning: Participate in virtual meetings and exhibit planning sessions

When should we set up our display?
Set-up begins at 7:00 AM the day before the event.
  • Recommended: Arrive early if you have large displays (e.g., trucks, tents, equipment).
  • Deadline: Set-up must be complete by 3:00 PM for fire inspection.
  • Security: 24-hour onsite security ensures your display is protected overnight.

What support is available for sponsors?
JOCO WORKS offers:
  • Planning resources
  • Exhibit design tips
  • Onsite support during the event

How many representatives can we bring?
You may bring as many team members as needed to provide a fun and interactive experience. We recommend working in shifts so your exhibit remains covered while allowing breaks.

What food will be served at the event?
Lunch is included for all participating sponsor representatives as part of your sponsorship package.

What are the parking arrangements and directions?
Parking arrangements are still to be determined. Specific details closer to the date.

What is the dress code?
We encourage participants to dress as they would for their workday, job, and career.

What is the rain date?
This is a rain or shine event and we encourage sponsors to have their own tents.  However, if there is a severe weather warning, we will cancel the event.

What happens if the event is canceled due to weather conditions?
In the summer, we begin planning event logistics. Unfortunately, we are unable to issue refunds for expenses that we’ve already incurred.

What if we can’t attend in person?
If you can’t attend, you can still participate by sending educational materials like:
  • Career pathways, credential, and educational attainment requirements
  • Worksheets
  • Coloring books
  • Printable resources for students and parents

When can I register?
Please register by August 31 by clicking the “Get Involved” button on the Sponsorships landing page of our official website.

Where do I register?
Click the “Get Involved” button on the Sponsorships landing page of our official website.

How do I pay for the registration?
 We accept credit card and checks. Please contact us if you want to use a different form of payment.
 
Can I register at the venue?
 Unfortunately, there is not a way to register onsite at the event.
 
If I have questions, who can I contact?
 Nneka Jenkins [email protected] for event information. Sarah Moore for [email protected] for media inquiries.
 
Please contact us for the ‘Exhibitor Expectations’ form for further information if needed.