It's an effort to help companies fill hundreds of open positions and those who are unemployed find work.
Over 300 people, including those who don't have jobs and those who are just looking for new work, are meting one-on-one with over 30 companies for a variety of positions, all thanks to a job fair held by State Representative Sue Scherer and Workforce Investment Solutions.
The job fair aims to address high unemployment rates and help connect members of the community with local employers.
"We've got manufacturing, welding, fabricators, logistics positions," says Robyn McCoy, Executive Director of Workforce Investment Solutions, "We've got financial [jobs], a couple banks that are looking for bank tellers."
Convey Health Solutions to hire about 300 workers by the end of the year, 150 by August.
"We're really looking for people who have customer service experience. Call center experience would be great, but not necessary," says Sarah Creek, HR Generalist and Recruiter for Convey Health Solutions.
Other companies such as Wal-Mart are looking applicants for both their Wal-Mart North location and Mt. Zion location.
"There's a lot of people out there that don't have a job and this is to help them get their foot back in the door, to help them get back on the right track and get their lives back," says Harlan Knisley, who attended the fair looking for a job.
"I think the response has been positive," explains Rochelle Tyus, a shift manager at Wal-Mart, "We've gotten a lot of applicants so far and they're steadily coming in. We're getting positive feedback."
Workforce Investment Solutions has monthly workshops available to help those seeking jobs prepare their resumes, help with interview skills, and get ready for the workforce.
Convey Medical Solutions has another job fair next week, July 26 from 12pm-6pm and July 27 from 9am-5pm at Richland Community College.
