SC Works and PTC Partner for Upper Savannah Regional Job Fair

Most serious job seekers understand the importance of selling themselves to potential employers. They understand that having an updated resume and being prepared for interviews is important. But getting face-to-face with hiring professionals can be a daunting task.  And many may not realize that additional education and training can increase their employability and pay.

This is why job hunters who attend the Upper Savannah Regional Job Fair on Wednesday, September 27, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Greenwood Mall, will find a one-stop opportunity for connecting with hiring professionals from across the region and understanding the training and educational opportunities available through Piedmont Technical College.

“We are excited about a new partnership with Piedmont Technical College,” said Billy Morgan, Deputy Workforce Development Director for Upper Savannah Council of Governments. “We want people to connect with employers who are hiring, but we also want them to work toward getting the skills needed for the jobs those employers are ready to fill.”

During the event, job seekers will have an opportunity to connect with more than 50 employers. Hiring professionals will be grouped by industry sector. And a table from Piedmont Tech featuring related educational programs will be available in each of these locations.

“This new partnership is a great opportunity to help residents see the connections between the training they can receive at PTC and the workforce needs in our region,” said Rusty Denning, PTC associate vice president of Economic Development and Continuing Education. “Whether you’re talking about health care, manufacturing or other areas, several companies are facing staffing shortages in skilled positions. We’ll be there to help visitors understand the steps they’ll need to take to ready themselves for those jobs.”

Attendees will have an opportunity to connect with companies in the areas of manufacturing, government, health care, community service, education and much more. Plus, companies who have signed up are seeking to fill over 2,000 jobs. 

To help job seekers prepare for the event, the Upper Savannah SC Works System, has a few tips that can help.

• Review the list of employers and determine who you want to see first
• Do some research on these companies before the event
• Bring plenty of copies of your resume
• Dress like you are going to a job interview

“First impressions are so important,” said Ann Skinner, Upper Savannah Council of Governments workforce development director. “There are great jobs out there that do not require a four-year degree. And the more prepared you are to meet with these companies, the more likely you will be to get your foot in the door.”

“Some people are worried about meeting employers, but they should not be. All of the job fair employers are eager to meet potential workers,” Skinner added. “A great way of breaking the ice is by asking the employer representative why they like working in their industry.”

The Job Fair is being organized by the Upper Savannah SC Works System, Piedmont Technical College, Greenwood Mall and area employers.

For more information about the job fair, contact Upper Savannah Council of Governments at 941-8050, 1-800-922-7729, work@uppersavannah.com, www.upperscworks.com or visit your local SC Works Center.