Career fair expands future possibilities

About 350 students from the Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton (JWP) and Waseca high schools, the Alternative Learning Center, and the Southwest Metro Partnership “Transitions” program attended a career fair at The Mill in Waseca co-sponsored by the Waseca counseling department and the Waseca Area Chamber of Commerce (WACC) on Monday, Oct. 28.

According to Ann Fitch, WACC executive director, students came in distinct groups, each of which circulated among the dozens of vendors for 90 minutes or more; the fair was open from about 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. “We worked to represent a wide swath of opportunities,” described Fitch. “We have businesses who might hire students going directly into the workforce, we have two- and four-year post-secondary educators, we have government agencies, military branches, and non-profit organizations.”

Students, all within one or two years of finishing their schooling, circulated among the tables, stopping to ask questions whenever they came across something that aligned with their interests. To encourage interaction, many vendors offered treats or small gifts.

Students were also encouraged to complete a “Bingo” card. Vendors stamped the cards as participants completed tasks which ranged from “find a career that requires a uniform” to “get a sticker.” Students who managed a bingo and turned in their cards were eligible for prize drawings.

A long table manned by Mayo Clinic Health System employees invited students to try cleaning and bandaging simulated wounds or checking blood pressure. 

“We’re planting seeds,” said one representative from Viracon. “We want these kids to find careers that are satisfying to them; we also want them to be aware they can build their futures without leaving their roots behind.”

Jordan Schoener of Cinch informed students they could become machinists by entering a paid apprenticeship at the company facility, then work their way up. “Businesses and communities support each other,” Schoener said. “Neither of us can prosper and continue growing without the other.”

Jennifer Burt, office manager with Waseca law firm Patton, Hoversten and Berg, had a table full of cards labeled with a variety of types of work. “I’m letting everyone know about the jobs available in a lawyer’s office,” said Burt. “There are a lot of very important jobs that need to be done, so it’s not only lawyers.” Burt commented she had been getting many questions from participants and that the career fair seemed like a great opportunity for all involved.

Edel Fernandez, candidate for Minnesota House 19B and admissions manager for South Central Community College, which has campuses in both Faribault and Mankato, said he was pleased with the amount of interest students had been showing. “It’s been great. I’ve answered lots of questions about our two- and four-year programs,” said Fernandez. “So many have been coming, I’m starting to run out of materials.”

Librarian Afton Finly with the LeSueur-Waseca Library located in Waseca, said she was helping spread the word that “libraries are more than just books.” She pointed out book specialists can work in a variety of settings, including law libraries and research facilities. In addition to being a possible career choice, Finly went on, she was working to remind learners that libraries are one of few remaining places where patrons can go inside, access the resources, feel completely safe, and never spend a dime.

Joe Isder of Elegant Creations in Waseca commented he too was there to let students know “they have options.” For those not interested in post-secondary schooling, he pointed out, his business and many others offer the chance to build a solid, fulfilling career.

Craig Ryan of Waseca’s Winegar, Inc., stood behind a table filled with complex metal pieces all manufactured by local company staff. “We value those students who like working with their hands,” he observed. “We want them to know they’re just the kind of people we’re looking for.”

Commented one student, “I had no idea how many options there are. I’m getting a lot of good ideas.”

Waseca Area Chamber of Commerce leader Fitch commented, “This is a great complement to the Chamber’s immersive career education day, which we hold in spring. There, we take groups of students to tour area businesses.

“Here, we’re bringing the businesses to them.”