2023 OhioMeansJobs Pike County career fair a resounding success
On Wednesday, Sept. 20, the Multi-Purpose Building at the Pike County Fairgrounds was alive with excitement as the Workforce & Business Development Program (W&B) at Community Action Committee of Pike County (CAC) and OhioMeansJobs (OMJ) Pike County hosted their annual Career Fair.
A total of 37 area employers, spanning a variety of industries from Pike and its surrounding counties, gathered under one roof to engage with eager job seekers on available positions and opportunities. The event's turnout exceeded expectations with over 75 job seekers in attendance — all seeking new career opportunities and professional growth.
A survey distributed via email and social media ahead of the event provided valuable insights employment status and goals. The responses revealed that 72 percent of survey takers were currently employed, 28 percent were currently unemployed, and an impressive 88 percent were specifically on the lookout for full-time positions. This data underscored the importance of the Career Fair as a key factor in addressing the community's workforce development needs.
One of the highlights of the Career Fair was the exemplary quality of job seekers that participated, a sentiment shared by the employer representatives present.
Lori Taylor, representing Adena Health System, couldn't help but express her admiration, stating, "This is the best job fair that I have been to in the past six months. The quality of applicants is very impressive." Such feedback from employers served as a testament to the effectiveness of the W&B Program and the dedication of its staff.
Each employer in attendance scheduled an average of four to six interviews with promising candidates. This result demonstrates that the Career Fair served not only as a meeting place for employers and job seekers but as a platform for meaningful connections and future employment opportunities.
In addition to the W&B and OMJ staff members, representatives from other community agencies were present to talk with employers about the vast supportive services that they provide.
The Career Fair showcased the commitment of the W&B, CAC, and OMJ Pike County to the long-term economic growth and prosperity of the region by connecting area employers with skilled, motivated job seekers.