About Us
Creating intentional futures, one student at a time.
What do you want to do when you grow up?
Young kids are often asked this question, as are middle school students, high school students, and even adults who reflect on their aspirations. While young kids might dream of becoming a doctor or a fireman, many of these choices stem from professions they’ve seen on television or observed in friends and family. Unfortunately, this trend often continues through high school and beyond, with *30% of students finding themselves working for the same employer as one of their parents, and **66% of students reporting that their parents influenced their career choices.
We believe there is a better way!
By focusing on career path education, we can help students explore their talents, skills, and gifts throughout middle school and high school. This approach, paired with internship opportunities, not only equips graduates to make informed career choices but can also save significant time and money. The average cost of four years at an in-state university has surged to $120,000, with private universities potentially costing even more. The days of attending college solely for the social experience or choosing a generic major are behind us. It's crucial to define intentions and goals early on to make the most of that $120,000+ investment. With guidance counselors in high schools overwhelmed by the number of students and course selections, we provide an alternative solution for families focused on the future.
Exploration is the key to student empowerment.
"Blessed are the curious for they shall have adventures." – Lovelle Drachman
Is college necessary? Is trade school a more suitable option? What high school classes are required to gain admission to my dream college? What are the best college programs for my interests? Are there more affordable college alternatives available? If I love science, what kind of jobs could I pursue? We will guide you through these questions and many more, exploring all your options and ultimately building individualized plans to help you achieve your goals.
About Me
After a successful 24-year career in banking, Wendy Peterson made the decision to leave the corporate world and channel her expertise, passion, and purpose into supporting the next generation through career path education. Throughout her career, she discovered that what fulfilled her most was helping people recognize their strengths and navigate meaningful paths forward. This realization ultimately inspired her to launch a business dedicated to guiding students as they explore who they are—and who they can become.
Wendy now works one-on-one with students to uncover their unique skills, talents, interests, and values. Using a holistic, strengths-based approach, she helps them create individualized plans to identify potential career options and build pathways that support long-term success. Whether students are preparing for college, trade programs, or direct-entry careers, Wendy equips them with clarity, confidence, and actionable plans for the future.
Driven by a deep belief that every student deserves to discover their potential, Wendy combines her strategic thinking, coaching abilities, and real-world experience to empower young people in their journey of student empowerment. Her work is rooted in encouragement, practical insight, and a commitment to helping each student envision—and achieve—a future that fits them.
Start early, end happy.
According to careervision.org, only 45% of Americans are satisfied with their current jobs, with 20% of workers feeling truly passionate about their career. By partnering with Next Step, we provide career path education that empowers students to embark on a journey toward lifelong happiness, helping them build a future they love through individualized plans.
We accept students 7th-12th grade into our program.