Before the Diploma: ‘Student Access Pass’ Jumpstarts Careers Early
While many students wait until graduation to consider career connections, a growing number are gaining traction early thanks to the Springfield Chamber’s Student Access Pass program.
The Student Access Pass (SAP), part of the Chamber’s WorkReady initiative, is designed for students in degreed or career and technical education (CTE) programs who are eager to explore career pathways, grow their networks, and get connected with the employers shaping our local economy. Launched to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world opportunity, the program reflects the Springfield Chamber’s strategic commitment to strengthening workforce readiness through targeted partnerships.
“The Springfield Chamber has always been a connector, and the Student Access Pass is a natural extension of that mission. It’s a win-win: students gain confidence and exposure to opportunities; employers gain insight into the next generation of workers – and maybe even meet their next hire.”
– Paige Walters, Senior Director, Advocacy & Economic Development, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
Who can enroll in the program
The Student Access Pass program is aimed at high school, college, and university students looking to begin building their networks and exploring potential career opportunities. SAP also targets employers with student interns – these employers can enroll their interns in the program for continued industry engagement after their internships end.
How it works
Students enrolled in the SAP program gain access to Springfield Chamber events, presentations, and employer engagement opportunities, introducing them to the region’s business leaders, hiring professionals, and mentors. Participation in the program costs $100, but financial support is available to ensure cost isn’t a barrier. Students may be sponsored by their employer or receive a scholarship through the Springfield Chamber Foundation, a nonprofit entity that helps fund the Chamber’s work.
Efforts to grow the program and remove financial barriers align with one of the Foundation’s original missions: building a stronger, more resilient local workforce. With 19 students currently enrolled, the Chamber aims to increase participation to 40 by December 2025, in line with its overarching initiative to bolster investment in talent pipeline programs.
Why it matters; now more than ever
In a tight labor market, employers are looking for homegrown talent that is ready to contribute. Students, meanwhile, are seeking opportunities and exposure to pathways that lead to meaningful careers. The SAP program addresses both challenges by cultivating early, authentic connections between students and employers, while keeping more of our trained workforce in local placements.
Though summer is often seen as a downtime for students, it can be a prime moment for motivated individuals to get ahead. With fall events approaching fast, now is the perfect time to enroll, secure a badge, and be ready to hit the ground running as Chamber programs continue to run throughout the summer and into the school year.
What students get with the Pass
• Springfield Chamber member status
• Invitations to networking events, educational programs, and business tours
• Exposure to real-world employers across industries
• Mentorship and visibility within the Springfield business community
Help us grow the future workforce
Whether you’re a student looking to expand your career horizons – or a community member who knows someone just starting out – the Chamber invites you to help strengthen Lane County’s talent pipeline. By building professional relationships now, students are better equipped to thrive tomorrow.
Know a student who might be interested?
Share this link and help them take the first step.
The Student Access Pass program is made possible by the generous contributions of our Impact Investors, as well as a grant from the Three Rivers Foundation, established in October of 2011 to serve as the charitable giving arm of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians and the Three Rivers Casino Resort.
