CNS Business Club students compete in JA Titan competition

On Wednesday, March 19, Cicero-North Syracuse (CNS) Business Club students participated in the annual Junior Achievement (JA) Titan competition, an interactive business simulation where students take on the role of CEOs in the phone industry. Competing from their school’s computer lab, students made strategic decisions to manage a cell phone manufacturing company, focusing on production, marketing, research and development (R&D) and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Thirteen teams competed in the online simulation, each working independently to maximize their company's value over eight virtual business quarters. Throughout the competition, students navigated real-world business challenges, learning to balance profitability, innovation and ethical business practices.

This extracurricular event is one of two CNS Business Club activities affiliated with Junior Achievement. In addition to the JA Titan competition, each fall CNS Business Club students attend the Junior Achievement Entrepreneurial Summit at Syracuse University, providing further opportunities for hands-on business learning. The CNS Business Club is led by co-advisors Mike Lucia and Rick Mancabelli. 

The 2025 JA Titan winners were:

•  1st Place: Ethan Turner
•  2nd Place: Jared Hollister
•  3rd Place: Ryan Hill

About JA Titan

JA Titan® is a simulation-based program that immerses high school students in the world of business, challenging them to think critically about financial literacy and business strategy. Through this experience, students learn to evaluate trade-offs, apply budgeting skills, and analyze the impact of their decisions on company success.

By participating in JA Titan, students develop key business competencies, including:

•  Understanding profit and its role in business success
•  Managing a budget to monitor income, expenses, and investments
•  Recognizing the value of R&D and marketing as strategic business investments
• Exploring corporate social responsibility and its role in community partnerships

JA Titan is part of the JA Financial Literacy Pathway, designed for high school students (Grades 9-12). The program, offered in both classroom and extracurricular settings, consists of interactive sessions that include game-play strategies, competitions and real-world financial applications.

Through experiences like JA Titan, CNS Business Club students gain valuable business insights that prepare them for future careers and entrepreneurial opportunities. Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and strategic thinking in this year’s competition!