Job fair provides networking venue for current and retired military

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jannelle Dickey
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
To ensure Team Barksdale is prepared for post-military life, the Airman & Family Readiness Center and the Louisiana Department of Labor have partnered to host the Louisiana Workforce Commission Veterans Job Fair May 21, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Bossier Civic Center.

The annual job fair is designed to assist current military members, veterans and family members seeking employment to explore local employers. 

"When it comes to finding a job, the best ones are not advertised, they can only be found by networking," said Stephanie Reyes, A&FRC chief . "This job fair provides a venue to network with potential employers."

The opportunity can be as significant as a first interview or as simple as gathering information on potential employment opportunities.  The fair also provides an opportunity to gain experience with the networking process. 

"Job seekers attend this event to try to make a good impression with potential employers by speaking face-to-face, filling out résumés and asking questions in an attempt to get a good feel on the work needed." Forrest Carper, A&FRC community readiness consultant, said.

Carper stresses the significance in value of the skills military members offer the civilian workforce.

"Veterans offer versatility," he said. "They are accustomed to uniform policies and structure, but can adapt to dynamic workplace situations. They boast leadership and have teamwork skills that outpace those of their civilian counterparts."

An estimated 300 attendees will be able to talk to more than 100 employers.

"Last year several hundred people were able to find out how employable they were in the civilian sector," said Carper.

For more information on the job fair, contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center at 318-456-8400.