Exploring: Real Career Experience for Teens Ages 14–21 Near Chicago

Exploring is a co-ed program where teens ages 14–21 partner with local businesses, agencies, and community organizations to explore future careers through hands-on activities and mentorship. Instead of guessing what they might want to do after high school, Explorers get real exposure to careers like law enforcement, healthcare, firefighting, STEM, and business. It’s practical, flexible, and built to help teens make confident decisions about their future.

Find Exploring Near You

What Is Exploring in Scouting?

Exploring is part of Scouting America, created specifically for career and interest exploration. Teens join small groups called posts, each focused on a specific career field. Posts are guided by adult mentors who work in that profession and want to help young people learn what the job is really like. Activities are hands-on, educational, and designed to give teens insight—not pressure—about potential career paths.

Group of people standing in front of a small airplane on a runway under a blue sky.

Explore Careers Before College or the Workforce

Exploring helps teens answer a big question: “What could I see myself doing?” Depending on the post, Explorers might:

Firefighters pose in front of a fire truck. They wear tan coats and helmets, some holding tools.

Learn basic skills from firefighters or EMTs

Participate in law enforcement simulations and community projects

Explore healthcare careers through hands-on demonstrations

Try STEM-related projects tied to engineering or technology

Learn about business, trades, or public service roles

These experiences help teens discover interests, confirm passions, or rule out paths before investing time and money in college or training.

Career Exploration Close to Home

Rainbow Council supports and develops Explorer posts throughout Chicagoland’s southwest suburbs. Current and developing focus areas include law enforcement, fire and EMS, healthcare, STEM, and business-related careers. We continue to build partnerships with local organizations to expand opportunities for teens.


Teens from Joliet, Bolingbrook, Plainfield, and surrounding communities can participate in posts close to home—or help launch a new one based on their interests.

Flexible and Teen-Friendly by Design

Exploring is designed to work around busy teen schedules. Most posts meet in the evenings or on weekends, often monthly or during short seasonal sessions. Many teens participate in multiple activities—sports, band, school clubs—and still enjoy Exploring. Some youth even join more than one post if schedules allow, such as a summer healthcare post and a school-year law enforcement post.

Real Benefits for College and Career Readiness

Exploring gives teens more than information—it gives them experience. Participants build confidence, communication skills, and professional awareness while working alongside peers and mentors. These experiences stand out on college applications and interviews, and mentors often provide references or recommendation letters. For parents, Exploring offers meaningful growth without adding academic pressure.

Exploring vs. Venturing — Which Is Right?

Both programs are co-ed and designed for older youth, but they serve different interests:


  • Exploring focuses on careers and professional fields through mentorship and hands-on learning.

  • Venturing centers on outdoor adventure, leadership, and hobbies chosen by the crew.

Some teens choose one, while others participate in both to round out their experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Exploring

  • Is Exploring the same as job shadowing or an internship?

    Exploring is similar, but it’s organized as a group program with peers and mentors. It’s introductory and educational, making it ideal for teens who want exposure without long-term commitments.

  • How often do Explorer posts meet?

    Meeting schedules vary by post. Many meet once or twice a month, with additional special events or short-term academies.

  • Can my teen do Exploring along with Scouts or other activities?

    Yes. Exploring is flexible, and many teens participate alongside school clubs, sports, Scouts BSA, or other programs.

  • What does it cost to join an Explorer post?

    Costs are generally low and vary by post. Most involve a small annual fee and minimal equipment. Details are available through the council.

  • Do Explorers earn certifications or credit?

    Exploring does not offer academic credit, but many posts provide certificates of participation, letters of recommendation, and in some cases training like first aid or CPR, depending on the program.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help

Choosing the right activities for your child is a big decision—especially if Scouting is new to your family. If you’re not sure where to start, or you’d like help finding the best fit for your child’s age and interests, our team is happy to help.


You can email us directly at
membership@rainbowcouncil.org

Interested in Starting or Joining an Explorer Post?

If your teen wants to explore careers, build confidence, and gain real-world insight before graduation, Exploring is a powerful next step. Rainbow Council can help you find an existing post or work with community partners to start a new one.