Northern Michigan Regional Job Fair
Michigan - Northern Michigan Regional Job Fair
Workforce Innovation Submitted By: Northeast Michigan Consortium Michigan Works!
Community Challenge/Problem
On Saturday, March 11th, over 150 job seekers sought respite from the bitter cold to attend the Michigan Works! Northern Michigan Job Fair in Mackinaw City with hopes of securing spring and summer employment. Forty-eight local employers were present (representing 76 businesses) hoping to fill well over 1,000 jobs. Industries represented included tourism, retail, hospitality, food service, transportation and more, offering part-time, seasonal, and full-time opportunities.
Board Solution/Innovation
The event, held at the Mackinaw City Recreational Center, was put on by Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium, in collaboration with Upward Michigan Works!, Northeast Michigan Works!, North Central Michigan College, The Village of Mackinaw City, and the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce.
“I enjoyed it,” agreed Cheyenne Farr. “It was informational and a good experience. I have two interviews!”
Employers reported that the event was well-organized and offered a great opportunity to network with fellow employers and meet many job seekers at once. Many commented on the good turnout and that the Mackinaw City location was a great spot for a northern Michigan job fair.
Outcomes & Results
This year’s Job Fair attendance was up by 25% from last year’s job fair (which was held in Cheboygan). Increased marketing, the Mackinaw City location, and holding the event on a Saturday (as compared to mid-week) are believed to attribute to the increase.
One job seeker from Minnesota, who was spending her spring break in northern Michigan, attended this year’s fair hoping to secure summer employment on Mackinac Island. Another job seeker came up from Rochester, MI, with the same goal. Overall, job seeker feedback was very positive, with attendees stating the event offered a variety of employers and opportunities.
“I thought it was amazing,” said Steven Demasi. “We had a very good time and found some amazing jobs to apply to.”
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