Holmes County Job Expo is set for Harvest Ridge
Helping put on the upcoming Holmes County Job Fair on April 30 will be Emily Ayers, left, OhioMeansJobs case manager; Nicole Lepley; Brenda Gerber, Holmes County Job & Family Services director; Dan Jackson; and JFS program manager Lisa VanSickle.
OhioMeansJobs Holmes County, a division of Holmes County Job & Family Services is sponsoring its annual Job Expo, which aims to assist job seekers and employers alike. This year’s event will be Tuesday, April 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Harvest Ridge Convention Center, 8880 OH-39, Millersburg.
The expo is held traditionally in the spring to aid employers who are planning for the rest of the year, said Dan Jackson, director at JFS. In recent years the expo has been held at the convention center, which offers easy accommodations.
“It’s an excellent venue for the event,” Jackson said. “There’s a lot of space. It’s clean. There’s more than adequate parking available for folks. And so we invite everyone to come out.”
The free event is organized for job seekers and employers to connect through table displays and organic conversations. Prospective employees can be prescreened, interviewed and even hired onsite.
Job seekers of all backgrounds and experience levels are welcome. JFS staff will greet candidates at the door and help those looking to navigate their day.
“We try to have an individualistic approach and then help you get prepared before you walk in there to start talking to employers,” Jackson said.
The expo offers a broad spectrum of employment opportunities.
“We have a variety of employers from healthcare, construction, banking, retail and various factories,” Jackson said. “We had a good mix last year, and I think we’re going to have even more employers this year.”
JFS is anticipating about 50 employers to come out this year and is currently welcoming sign-ups from area jobs. Table/booth service is free to the employer, and a lunch is provided for the commitment. While there is no deadline to sign up, employers are encouraged to do so sooner rather than later to aid in the planning process. To reserve a spot, call Nicole Lepley at 330-763-8733 or Lisa VanSickle at 330-763-8729.
Bus transportation will be provided to local high school students in 11th and 12th grade. So far JFS has a commitment from West Holmes High School, which attended last year, and is open to other schools attending.
Candidates from neighboring counties also are encouraged to attend. According to census data, Holmes County imports more employees than it exports, so outside people are welcome, Jackson said.
JFS strives to make the job search seamless by offering resume services and giving pointers and recommendations to candidates.
“Don’t let anything stop you,” Jackson said. “We’ll help get over whatever obstacles (you have).”
In addition to employment-browsing opportunities, JFS will provide onsite resume services to job seekers and interview rooms for employees and candidates. Staff will be available to talk to prospective applicants about training and certification opportunities they may be eligible for.
Additionally, JFS will have a state licensing representative present to talk to those interested in opening a licensed childcare facility in their home. For those who qualify, JFS offers an income-based program that provides work equipment and transportation needs for current employees.
“Our goal is to help people stay in work and not have a barrier like an automobile issue or transportation issue,” Jackson said.
Expos are strategically set up to mutually benefit employees and employers, Jackson said. JFS incorporates survey results from past events to offer a seamless process and has received positive feedback overall.
“There are going to be a lot of opportunities for people to meet a variety of employers and see if they are a good match for the needs of the employers,” Jackson said.
Jackson and his staff can recall stories of several candidates receiving job offers last year and employers making a handful of strong contacts for future consideration.
“We’re hoping that’s a trend we can continue. And that’s one of the reasons why we meet everybody at the door — so that when you go talk to an employer, you’re ready,” Jackson said.
Job seekers who’d like a jump-start on the expo are encouraged to stop by JFS ahead of time for resume writing, application help and other job-seeking tips. Computers are open for people to conduct individual job searches and look through a comprehensive list of job openings in the county.
“Don’t let anything keep you from being out this day,” Jackson said. “We’ve been very successful in helping people get into the job market, so we will help you.”
More information on JFS can be found at https://www.holmescountydjfs.com or by calling 330-674-1111. The resource room office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 85 N. Grand St. in Millersburg.