In this Wednesday Webinar, host Tyler Heckel launches the January 2026 theme, Setting Up Your Year for Success, from Studio 42 at the T.W. Lewis Success Center. Joined by Jonathan McKee, GCU graduate, MBA student, and founder of Junior Innovators, this conversation explores entrepreneurial mindset, real world application, and why innovation truly has no age.
Jonathan shares his journey from Oklahoma to GCU, how launching businesses as a student shaped his career, and why hands on entrepreneurship, especially in K12, is essential in an AI driven world. Jonathan also previews how educators and students can see him again this April at the International Christian STEM Competition (ICSC) and learn how schools can participate in STEM challenges and Canyon Venture style pitch experiences designed to help students turn ideas into impact. Interested schools can learn more through the ICSC link below.
🌟International Christian STEM Competition ICSC
Interested in seeing what Jonathan does or want to kickstart your students path to entrepreneurship by signing your school up to participate in STEM and Canyon Venture challenges?
https://www.acsi.org/academic-program...
Meet Jonathan McKee!
Jonathan McKee is an entrepreneur at heart with a lifelong drive to build, improve, and create value wherever he can. His early experiences in business shaped a mindset centered on resilience, adaptability, and continuous growth. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Entrepreneurship from Grand Canyon University and is currently pursuing his MBA at GCU.
During his academic journey, Jonathan co founded Junior Innovators, an organization that partners with schools to deliver hands on entrepreneurship programs designed to prepare students for real world business and leadership. He has consistently excelled in sales and communication, applying a practical and relational approach that helps him build trust, articulate vision, and create strong partnerships.
Jonathan’s experience in fast paced environments has reinforced his belief that challenges are opportunities and that meaningful work emerges when innovation aligns with purpose. He is committed to building impactful systems, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs, and continually elevating the standard of his work.
🌟 Key Highlights:
Setting Up 2026 for Success (00:00:10)
Launching the January webinar theme and highlighting GCU, the Colangelo College of Business, and the T.W. Lewis Success Center as hubs for innovation.
From Student to Founder (00:01:36)
Jonathan’s journey to GCU, launching a dorm room business, and applying classroom learning to real world ventures.
Balancing Academics, Business, and Life (00:02:33)
The discipline, consistency, and work ethic required to succeed as a student entrepreneur.
Standing Out Through Intentional Action (00:04:00)
Why attending Idea Club, staying after class to connect with professors, and proactive networking sets students apart.
Junior Innovators and Hands On Learning (00:05:48)
How K12 students build solutions to real life problems and sell products through student marketplaces.
Using GCU’s Entrepreneurial Resources (00:09:13)
Leveraging the Canyon Venture Center, Idea Club, Canyon Challenge, and mentorship opportunities.
Fire Ready Aim Startup Mindset (00:10:43)
Why starting imperfectly, testing quickly, and iterating with customer feedback leads to stronger ventures.
AI Education and Future Ready Skills (00:12:28)
Preparing students and schools for a changing workforce through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Venture and STEM Challenge Opportunities (00:15:53)
Preview of Venture 2026 and opportunities to see Jonathan again at ICSC in April, including STEM and Canyon Venture style pitch experiences.
Protecting Your Time in 2026 (00:18:45)
Eliminating time wasters and using time intentionally to build toward long term success.
🌟Resources and Featured Ventures
Junior Innovators
https://www.junior-innovators.org/about
Powder Pal
https://www.powderpal.shop/?srsltid=A...
CarChap
https://thecarchap.com/
Nogginboss
https://nogginboss.com/?srsltid=AfmBO...
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