From Barn Quilts to Lego Legacies: How high school CEO programs are shaping tomorrow’s entrepreneurs

June 2, 2025

What happens when you pair ambitious high school seniors with real-world business experiences and dedicated local mentors? You hear stories like Gabby Block and Jackson Cole—two recent graduates whose entrepreneurial journeys were shaped by two local CEO programs and the guidance of First National Bank and Trust Company employees, Josh Shofner and Lance White.

This isn’t your typical classroom- it’s a year-long, immersive experience for high school students that blends business site visits, mentorship, and hands-on projects to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit. For Gabby and Jackson, it was more than just a program—it was a launchpad.

Gabby Block: From Alpacas to Artistry

Gabby, a recent graduate of Bement High School and participant in the Sangamon Valley CEO Program. This included students from Monticello, Bement, Argenta-Oreana, Cerro Gordo, & DeLand-Weldon high schools. She is headed to the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater to study environmental science and conservation. But her entrepreneurial roots run deep, as her family runs an alpaca farm that doubles as an agritourism destination. This includes tours and using alpaca fiber to make hats and mittens, yarn, etc. to sell at local farmers’ markets, too.

“I joined the CEO program to build confidence in my public speaking and communication. I saw last year’s class present and thought, ‘I want to do that!”

Gabby launched her own business creating barn quilts—her Case IH design was a fan favorite. Through the program, she learned the ins and outs of running a business, from fundraising to pitching to a board of directors.

“There’s so much behind-the-scenes work in business—troubleshooting, adapting, building client relationships. The CEO program really gave me an inside view of business and provided me a whole new perspective.”

The Sangamon Valley group project had a successful Grinch 5K at Allerton Park during the Christmas season. They came up with the idea of releasing a grinch a few minutes after the start and anyone beating the grinch received a special medal, which generated a great crowd of runners and walkers!

 

Gabby shared, “I learned so much organization and time management skills as well as more critical, strategic thinking. The CEO program truly was the best start to my day!”

Her favorite moment? Visiting a business that combined CrossFit and metal forging—an unexpected mix but inspiring blend of passion and skill.

“It was a great picture of passions and business. It showed me that you can truly pair what you love with your business and personal strengths.”

She added, “I loved the introduction of getting our feet wet with fundraising to all the business acumen. I learned so much as an individual and working with others. Through this I was even able to score a seasonal role at one of our business site visits.”

Gabby credits her mentor, Josh Shofner, for helping her grow and even winning a raffle basket her mom donated at a fundraiser event!

Jackson Cole: Building a Business Brick by Brick

Jackson, a Maroa-Forsyth graduate, is heading to Illinois State University to major in finance. He participated in the Central Illinois CEO chapter which has students from Blue Ridge, Clinton, Maroa-Forsyth, and Warrensburg-Latham. Additionally, he was mentored by Lance White from First National Bank and Trust Company. Originally planning to start a personal fitness business, Jackson pivoted when licensing requirements got in the way. Instead, he turned his lifelong love of LEGO into a thriving resale business.

“I buy vintage LEGO sets, clean them, and resell them to collectors. My favorite sale? The Tower of Orthanc from Lord of the Rings—sold for $470! I’m a collector myself and the hobby transitioned into a business – a win, win.”

During the first semester students had to select a group business and create an event or a product and service to raise money, which would help fund the student’s individual businesses during second semester.

Jackson’s leadership skills were tested and sharpened when he was elected CEO of his class business. He led a team of 15 students to plan “Melodies and Masterpieces,” a high-end dinner and art auction that raised over $30,000. The group even donated $2,000 of that to the local Alzheimer's Association.

 

“I’m a high C on the DISC assessment—detail-oriented and driven. Leading that event taught me how to communicate, resolve conflict and involve others in the process.”

He also job-shadowed Lance at the bank, gaining firsthand insight into banking and finance. Banking has always interested Jackson, so learning finance with an inside scoop as well as a does business strategy fit the bill.

“The CEO program helped me narrow down my interests and build a network. Plus, this exposure allowed me to see the behind the scenes of so many financial and marketing aspects, pricing, profit margins, etc. The aspect of responsibility, working with a team, clear communication and experiencing personal growth are unmatched.”

The Power of Mentorship

Both Gabby and Jackson credit their mentors—Josh and Lance—for helping them grow personally and professionally. First National Bank and Trust Company employees didn’t just offer advice; they modeled leadership, accountability, and community involvement.

“Having someone like Josh to bounce ideas off of made a huge difference,” Gabby shared.

“Lance and I are both detail-oriented, so we really clicked,” Jackson added.

Josh Shofner, President of First National Bank and Trust Company added, “We have loved being a part of the CEO program since the initial launch, as financial sponsor to people mentoring. This program has lasting, positive ripple effects for our next generation of small business owners which ultimately helps our local economy, creates local jobs and provides reinvestment in the place we live, work and play.” 

  

Final Thoughts: Advice for Future CEO Students

Both students had similar advice for those considering the program:

“Step out of your comfort zone. Shake hands. Ask questions. Learn something new. You’ll grow more than you expect with this fun challenge,” Gabby stated.

“Even if you’re not into business, do it! Get to know every student in the program early, it will help create a stronger bond as a team and success. You’ll be pushed, you’ll learn and you’ll build lifelong connections,” Jackson concluded.

To learn more about each of these programs, visit https://www.centralillinoisceo.com/ and https://www.sangamonceo.com/.

At First National Bank and Trust, we IGNITE PROSPERITY® by helping our clients do more with their money. Whether it’s saving a little extra cash each month or accomplishing a long-term strategy, our goal is to help you transform your financial life. Call and schedule an appointment today, one of our team members would love to help you do more with your money at FNBT. For more information visit firstnbtc.com or call 217-935-2148 in Illinois or 608-323-3331 in Wisconsin. #igniteprosperity