Job seekers and employers can take part in a series of Return Strong Virtual Job Fairs hosted by the Missouri Office of Workforce Development from now until the end of the year.
According to the department, the Return Strong Virtual Job Fairs are part of the state’s efforts to help Missourians skill up and get back to work following the economic downturn caused by layoffs from the COVID-19 pandemic.
CARES Act Funding will provide use of new software that enables employers to showcase their companies through virtual booths and connect with job seekers throughout the state.
Job seekers statewide will be able to search job listings, meet with hiring companies, receive tips for resume writing and job interviews, and learn more about Missouri Job Center services and training opportunities.
The first of the 12 scheduled virtual job fairs took place Sept. 22 with more than 120 registered job seekers. All upcoming fairs will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the dates listed below:
- Tuesday, Sept. 29 (Health Care specific)
- Tuesday, Oct. 6
- Tuesday, Oct. 13
- Tuesday, Oct. 20 (Manufacturing specific)
- Tuesday, Oct. 27
- Tuesday, Nov. 3 (Agriculture specific)
- Tuesday, Nov. 10
- Tuesday, Nov. 17
- Tuesday, Dec. 1 (Information Technology specific)
- Tuesday, Dec. 8
- Tuesday, Dec. 15
“We were pleased with the turnout and feedback from our first virtual job fairs in July and August,” said Mardy Leathers, director of workforce development. “With our new software, we’ll be able to connect more job seekers and employers – in a safe and completely virtual setting.”
Interested job seekers can register for any of the upcoming fairs at returnstrongmo.easyvirtualfair.com. Job seekers should create a profile and upload their resumes so employers can easily reach out after the fairs.
Employers can register and set up their virtual booths here: returnstrongmo.getyourbooth.com.
Throughout September, the MDHEWD is celebrating Workforce Development Month by raising awareness for its many job training and career advancement initiatives. In addition to hosting virtual job fairs, this month the department launched the state’s new Missouri Apprentice Connect portal, opened all remaining closed Job Centers, and will host the annual Chief Local Elected Officials Summit.