THINKChicago Launchpad Connects City Colleges Students to Chicago’s Tech Industry

City Colleges of Chicago students and alumni interested in technology, innovation, and STEM careers connected with Chicago's growing tech community at THINKChicago Launchpad 2026.

This year's event at McDonald's headquarters in Chicago on Friday, October 23, brought together community college students, industry professionals, and employers for an afternoon of networking, career exploration, and professional development.

THINKChicago Launchpad gives students a behind-the-scenes look at Chicago's technology and innovation sector as they explore career paths and build connections with companies that are shaping the industry. Students met with employers offering internships, learned about career opportunities, and connected with fellow student innovators from colleges across the region.

The event also offered practical resources to help students prepare for their next career steps. Attendees received free resume reviews, practice their interviewing skills through mock interviews, and took professional headshots for their LinkedIn profiles.

THINKChicago Launchpad is a talent development initiative led by World Business Chicago in partnership with the City of Chicago, the University of Illinois System, and City Colleges of Chicago. The partnership connects students with companies and career opportunities while supporting a diverse talent pipeline for Chicago's tech industry.

By connecting classroom learning with industry exposure and career resources, THINKChicago Launchpad helps City Colleges students take meaningful steps toward their professional goals and envision their futures in Chicago's growing tech community.