Albany-Dougherty Economic Commission’s job fair ‘a shocking success’

Over 1,200 people attend job fair; many applicants hired on spot

April 20, 2023

Mary Alex Anders, Matthew Crumley,

ALBANY, Ga – It was an incredible and unexpected turnout, at the job fair.

A turnout event organizers say they never expected…

Lines wrapped around the building where over 1,200 people showed up looking for a job.

“We invited over 13 surrounding counties to participate. We have 48 employers, who are here, they have registered and they’re ready to hire applicants. So the job fair is really just the best way that we can connect our employers to the people who really want the jobs,” said Jessica Zurheide, director of Business Relations – ADEC.

Organizers say turnout from high school and college aged students were more than they expected as well.

“We try to strategically plan the job fair about a month before college graduation and around the time of high school graduation because all of our employers are looking for people with different skill levels. If you have a college degree, even if you don’t, you’re encouraged to come, because we have employers looking for everyone, and they’re looking to hire people on site,” said Zurheide.

Job seekers were given the opportunity to meet representatives from the private to public sector.

“Don’t let job descriptions steer you away from applying for that job. Even if you think you don’t qualify for that job. So, even if you don’t think you qualify for the job, if you can put yourself in front of them, they can see something you have to offer that might not be on your résumé,” said Zurheide.

Zurheide is looking forward to next year’s job fair.

“So we’re happy to host this annually as long as our business community is in need of it,” said Zurheide.

Mary Alex Anders reporting.

For more information on the next job fair contact Zurheide by email: JZURHEIDE@CHOOSEALBANY.COM