Job fairs help pave way for college grads

DAYTON, Ohio — With summer right around the corner, it’s prime time for high school students to cash in on part-time work.

However, for many recent college graduates or older young adults looking to begin their career, it’s a time that’s leaving them feeling nervous.

According to recent studies focusing on the job market, more than half of college graduates are underemployed for a year after graduation.

The labor market has changed a lot over recent years and many graduates find themselves working in jobs that don’t match up with the degree they’ve earned.

Recruiters sais it’s important to watch for unique opportunities and ask the right questions.

Amidst a sea of Dayton Dragons green, resume sharing and business card exchanges, representatives from more than 50 companies looked for the next generation of employees at Montgomery County’s Youth Job Fair.

“Maybe think outside of the box about which companies you visit because you never know what they could be looking for,” said Stefanie Wallace.

Wallace is the lead technical recruiter for CompTech Computer Technologies.

“We are looking for college students. Looking for those who have experience in IT, engineering, cyber security — I know definitely is a field students are interested in,” she said.

While attracting IT candidates is high on the list, Wallace said graduates with other degrees should keep their eyes open.

“Uniquely we are looking for English majors, and communications majors as we are looking to train people up in proposal writing as that is a key component of what we do as a company,” she added.

Between plenty of networking options and mobile workforce unit parked out front, job fairs like this are important for young adults.

“I need something more permanent,” said DeAndrea Cook.

Cook completed some college and majored in engineering.

“But I realized that I didn’t want to go into that career field. I want to be a pilot,” Cook said.

For a while, she’s been working in various jobs.

While a career at CompTech may or may not be what she needs, hearing advice from recruiters like Wallace is beneficial.

“I’m about to be 20 so I need something that’s secure and something that will benefit me in the long run,” she said.

“We believe people should be compensated for their work and compensated well,” Wallace said.

At CompTech, entry-level IT positions start at around $50,000.

For college grads, when applying for jobs, it’s all about bringing your A-game. 

Wallace suggests keeping your resume fresh, being honest and being yourself.

“Don’t limit yourself by a technology company or something like that. Really check-in with the recruiters and see who is there because you never know what positions they might have for you,” she said.