Workforce Success Story Submitted By: Employment Services of Weld County
Workforce Challenge
For over two decades now, Weld County Young Adults ages 14-24 know they can count on attending the Young Adult Job Fair in March of each year with hopes to secure employment. This job fair is the most participated event for both job seekers and employers in Weld County. On the day of the event, news about COVID-19 increased regarding health concerns and was worrisome. Canceling the event would lead employers struggling to find summer help and job seekers would have missed out on a one-stop opportunity to apply for positions.
Workforce Solution
Employment Services of Weld County and our partner, the City of Greeley, quickly acted to address all concerns and implemented precautions to move forward with the fair and keep attendees safe and healthy. As an example, signage was displayed to encourage waves and eye contact versus the firm handshake one would normally do when meeting their future employer. Hand sanitizer was placed on every table and pens were given to each attendee as not to share and spread germs.
Outcomes & Benefits
On March 11, 2020, with massive shutdowns on the immediate horizon, an unexpected 328 young adults lined up to enter the event where 34 multi-industry employers were awaiting them. Results showed that the average job-seeker thought the fair was “good” and the employers ranked the event as “excellent”. Employment Services of Weld County considered this event, just as the participants did, a success!