The Align Center for Workforce Development will be hosting its third annual Career Connections Job fair on March 21, 2024. The event will be held at the Christian Family Center in Adrian from 9 am – 1 pm, with additional time for employer set up and tear down. The Align Center for Workforce Development is anticipating the participation of 40 employers and over 250 regional students and job seekers.
Career Connections began in 2022, with a primary focus on high school students who weren’t interested in pursuing traditional career education. Since then, the event has expanded to include a growing number of college students and community members in search of employment. In 2023, Career Connections brought in 278 local adults, college students, and high school upperclassmen.
The 2023 attending employers were highly satisfied with the results of the job fair. Meijer’s Store Director, Ben Negron reported meeting several high-value candidates and highlighted the positive environment of the event. According to Negron, “The one thing that stood out about the Align team was that they were constantly visible and helped the various vendors throughout the event—which meant a lot to us. I was very impressed with the organizational effort by the Align Team to make the space welcoming for all.”
The Career Connections Job Fair proved to be a valuable resource for students from 11 of the county’s high schools, Adrian College, and Siena Heights University. The friendly environment allowed students to discover available careers and practice networking with employers. In 2024, Align is predicting its biggest turnout with increased engagement from the county’s adult job seekers and regional colleges.
According to Sheila Blair, Executive Director of the Align Center for Workforce Development, “There are a lot of people seeking meaningful employment to support themselves and their families, but are unaware of the available opportunities, while, at the same time, employers have a hard time filling several important roles. This event connects job seekers of all levels with hiring employees to fill these needs within our community.”
Companies interested in sponsoring Career Connections may do so through March 15. Sponsors receive a free table, complimentary lunch, specialized location, company name and logo on all marketing materials, as well as other benefits.
For more information about sponsorships and registration, or questions about the event please contact [email protected]. Employers can register at https://www.alignlenawee.org/career-connections-job-fair/