Ensuring today’s young people have the tools and skills needed to compete in tomorrow’s workforce is one of Workforce Solution’s priorities. One method of assisting our youth in obtaining these skills is through career exploration and on-the-job-training.   Throughout the year, Workforce Solutions’ Youth Zone hosts a number of Youth Job Fairs at area high schools in an effort to expose regional youth to the many career opportunities available to them upon high school or post-secondary graduation.  This activity provides the students a unique opportunity to network with area employers and inquire about workplace, skills training and education requirements, industry demands and occupational trends.  And, a number of the participating employers interview applicants and hire on-site to fill after school or summer job openings.  Additionally, the job fair allows those youth who are economically disadvantaged to meet with a variety of employers without the need to travel to each of their businesses.  The activity also benefits employers by allowing them to market their products or services to area youth and by linking them to available young trainees and workers.   

Following each job fair, the high school and Workforce Solutions Youth Zone career counselors work hand-in-hand with the youth to assist in the application, interview and job search processes.  “By exposing our students to the career opportunities available to them, it gives them a better understanding of what steps are necessary to reach their full potential upon high school, technical or post-secondary graduation," said Estacado High School Principal David Vasquez.

For more information on Workforce Solutions Youth Zone services, including the Youth Job Fairs, contact our Youth Zone counselors toll-free at 1-866-765-5038.