Record Number of Companies Attend Career Fair

The fall Career Fair in the Restall Sports Center set yet another new attendance record with representatives of 120 companies seeking to find employees from among the 74 seniors, according to Margaret “Weemie” Kingham, placement director and fair coordinator.

All six Williamson trades were well represented with vendors with positions to fill from across the entire United States, she said.

View Photo Highlights of the Career Fair on Williamson’s Facebook Page

“There was something for everyone and many seniors found solid leads they will pursue. It was a good opportunity for students to explore different options that are available to them. I know of one student who is going to pursue six companies that he found of interest. And many underclassmen found solid opportunities for internships.

“This is what the Career Fair is all about. The students see first-hand that they are in demand by employers and the idea is reinforced that if they do well and excel at Williamson it will lead to solid employment.”

Kingham said the students handled themselves extremely well and she attributes this to the career panel that was held several days before the Career Fair, offering tips from three students and a company representative on how students should conduct themselves at the fair. “They listened attentively to this advice and took it serious and it showed.”

About 20 companies paid extra to address students in small groups to tell them about their company and several offered interviews.

Kingham said there also were many new companies at the fair. “It’s exciting when we attract new companies and get the chance to have them learn what Williamson is all about. Many of these companies contacted us after learning of the fair.”

She pointed out that one reason there was a record turnout is the strong economy, noting that “the construction and manufacturing industries are doing especially well.”

There also were more than 70 alumni representing companies. “I especially like this because our students feel comfortable talking with graduates and it also shows them where a Williamson education can lead if they stick it out for three years.”

Kingham stressed that the fairs are not a one person show. “It takes the efforts of many to make the Career Fairs successful. It also is wonderful for the vendors to see so many instructors and staff walk through the fairs. This demonstrates to them the commitment we all have to the students.

“I think this Career Fair came off like a well-oiled machine and impressed all the vendors.”