Representatives from GE in Peebles talk to students about future career goals. (Photo by Matheau Reno)
By Sherry Larson
People’s Defender
Juniors and seniors in high school have some significant decisions to make. “Should I go to college, trade school, or into the workforce?” On Tuesday, March 26, OhioMeansJobs helped students from Adams County gain perspective and knowledge about future job opportunities and the necessary credentials.
Matheau Reno, BRN Account Representative for OhioMeansJobs Adams/Brown Counties, Amy Jo Queen from Future Plans/GRIT Project, and the OhioMeansJobs Business Services Team organized a Job Fair held at the Adams County Fairgrounds. The event hosted nearly 300 students from Adams County Ohio Valley School District and Manchester Local School District; twenty-nine companies and organizations shared information. Hospitality, healthcare, law enforcement, manufacturing, journalism, and many other representatives spoke to students about their future endeavors. The students were polite and engaging. They asked thoughtful questions and carried on keen conversations.
Reno thanked participants and sponsors for the event. Sponsorships provided a hot lunch from Angela’s Curbside Cuisine for every student attending the event. Reno said Angela’s was an amazing partner for the day. The lunch sponsors included Adams County Regional Medical Center, Adams County Community Foundation, First State Bank, Future Plans and the GRIT Project, OhioMeansJobs Adams-Brown, and Adams County Community Action Partnership.
The day was a success. Despite some early obstacles and fairground congestion, Reno presented with a positive attitude of “Pivot, don’t panic” and made the best of a rough start.
Nestle Purina Plan members in Batavia said about the day, “Our team had great feedback to share on the experience, and we are looking forward to doing more with OhioMeansJobs Adams-Brown in the future.”
Reno said, “We’re thrilled with the turnout for the career fair. The enthusiasm and engagement from both students and participating organizations highlight the event’s significance in bridging the gap between education and the workforce. We’re proud to have facilitated such an environment and look forward to the next opportunity.”
Plans are already in progress for next year’s event. Exposure to opportunities is critical for students, and a Job Fair can offer ideas for prospects and help young people develop an intentional career plan.
