Peterson Career Fair ‘a treat’ for job seekers

Published Aug. 24, 2010
By Monica Mendoza
21st Space Wing Public Affairs staff writer

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The employment experts at the 21st Force Support Squadron's Airman and Family Readiness Center have heard fear in the voices of retiring and separating Airmen and their spouses, who are looking for jobs. And, they want to help.

The Airman and Family Readiness Center has assembled more than 50 employers, all who have said they are hiring right now, for the annual Peterson Air Force Base Career Fair 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 1. They've planned a day of networking, interviewing, job seeking and a chance for Airmen, spouses and all I.D. card holders to make contacts and perhaps, land a job.

Representatives from high-tech companies, the hotel industry, defense contractors, the library district, utilities, retail stores, non-profit agencies, Homeland Security and healthcare will be available for serious job seekers to meet.

"In this economy, this is a treat," said Kehinde OshikoyaPamphille, Spouse Career Focus Program manager and one of the fair organizers.

The Career Fair was designed for all job seekers - those separating from the military, spouses who just relocated to Colorado Springs with their active duty partner, individuals who want part-time work, active duty and spouses looking for college opportunities and those seeking to volunteer.

"The bottom line is they should come in with their best foot forward; come in a suit, come with their resume, come looking like a serious professional looking for a job," said Sherri Kitchens, Transition Assistance Program Manager and one of the fair organizers.
"We have gone above and beyond to try to provide the companies who are hiring."

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. with an hour of networking, when job seekers have one-on-one face time with employers in a more relaxed setting away from the tables and booths. Pre-registration is required for the networking event.

The Career Fair runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and appointments are not necessary. Employers and college representatives will have booths and tables set up in the main ball room at The Club.

"Active duty personnel will be encouraged that there are opportunities out there," Ms. Kitchens said.

Ms. OshikoyaPamphille teamed with Ms. Kitchens to pull in all their contacts in the business world. They have also scheduled a photographer who will take free head and shoulder shots of jobseekers, which can be used for resumes or social networking sites.

Included in the mix of employers are representatives from non-profit agencies who are looking for volunteers, which is a good way to get job experience, Ms. OshikoyaPamphille said.

"One big emphasis for us is networking," she said. "And, networking through volunteering. We emphasize volunteering and keeping your skill sets up. This way, when a job does come open, you are ready."

Peterson Networking and Career Fair
· Spouses, get prepared for the career fair: 9 to 11 a.m., Aug. 27, at the Airman and Family Readiness Center, Building 350, room 1203. Get interview tips, dress for success tips, finalize your resume and pick a wingman to accompany you through the fair. Call 556-6141 to register.
· Networking event, 9 to 10 a.m. Sept. 1 at The Club. Pre-registration required, call 556-6141. Bring your business cards and meet employers in a less formal setting.
· Career Fair, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 1 at The Club. Bring at least 20 copies of your resume and business cards. Meet more than 50 employers and college representatives.

Job fair