Foundation for Talent Transformation Connects Self-Awareness with Career Success at JAG EDGE 2026
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LONG BEACH, CA —July 22, 2026— The Foundation for Talent Transformation joined Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG), its affiliates, specialists, and youth development leaders at the 2026 JAG EDGE Conference in Long Beach, California, to explore practical ways to help young people build confidence, deepen their self-awareness, and pursue meaningful education and career pathways.
During the conference, the Foundation connected with attendees in the Power-Up Zone, introducing free, research-based tools that organizations can incorporate into their existing youth-development, coaching, classroom, and career-readiness programs.
As part of its participation at JAG EDGE 2026, the Foundation shared the presentation, “Youth Voices: How Self-Assessment Develops Occupational Identity and Builds Career Confidence.”
The presentation examines how self-assessment can help young people develop a clearer sense of occupational identity, connect their personal qualities to future opportunities, and make more informed education and career decisions.
“Youth-serving organizations already have the relationships, expertise, and programs needed to make a meaningful difference,” said Eric Shepherd, executive director of the Foundation for Talent Transformation. “Our role is to support that work with additional tools that help young people better understand who they are, see what may be possible, and move forward with greater confidence.”
The Foundation’s tools include self-assessments covering career interests, personal values, personality, emotional intelligence, and other areas of personal development. Each assessment results in a personalized report that helps young people better understand their results, recognize their strengths and preferences, and participate more confidently in conversations about their goals and future options.
The presentation and supporting handouts are available at:
About the Foundation for Talent Transformation
The Foundation for Talent Transformation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals understand themselves and others to thrive personally and professionally. Through evidence-based assessments and AI-powered coaching, the Foundation supports self-awareness, resilience, and lifelong learning across education, workforce, and community environments.
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Media Contact:
Eric Shepherd
Executive Director
Foundation for Talent Transformation
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