Milwaukee area students put their entrepreneurship skills to the test in Junior Achievement’s Annual JA Business Challenge

High school students compete for scholarships and prizes in interactive challenge

Nearly 100 of the best and brightest student “CEOs” in the metro Milwaukee area competed in the Junior Achievement annual JA Business Challenge on Thursday, February 14, 2013. The event was presented by Kohl’s Cares and was hosted by Briggs & Stratton Corporation. Teams of local students from 20 area high schools were paired up with area business leaders to test their business knowledge.

“The Junior Achievement Business Challenge provides a great opportunity for high school students to gain the business acumen and leadership skills they will need to successfully participate in the global economy,” said Tim Greinert, President of Junior Achievement of Wisconsin.

Students tested their knowledge at running a virtual business through a hands-on computer simulated business strategy tournament using JA Titan. They then made their own business decisions regarding price, production, marketing, capital investment, and research and development. The success or failure of the company depended on how well the students managed these key decisions.

“Kohl’s and Junior Achievement share a strong commitment to kids’ education initiatives, and we are proud to present the JA Business Challenge,” said Kevin Mansell, chairman, president & CEO of Kohl’s Department Stores. “We believe this program creates a unique learning opportunity for Milwaukee area youth and helps prepare them for future success and business leadership.”

“This challenge is uniquely positioned to help the students use their creativity, test their leadership skills and participate in a competitive nature that focuses on business and entrepreneurship. The skills that are gained from this exercise are real life examples that can only enhance their knowledge of business and positively position them for future success,” said Todd J. Teske, Chairman, President & CEO of Briggs & Stratton Corporation.

In addition to earning scholarships and prizes, the top performing teams will advance to the Wisconsin JA Business Challenge on April 25, 2013, hosted and sponsored by ACUITY, Sheboygan.