Labour market partnership looking to expand impact for jobseekers and employers in Medicine Hat region
After a very successful first event, a labour market partnership involving Medicine Hat College (MHC), Alberta Labour, Alberta Supports – Employment Hub, and the YMCA Employment Centre is gearing up to host another drive-thru job fair on November 25.
While October’s event was specific to Borea Construction, jobseekers can expect to see a variety of organizations with open positions at the next recruitment event, similar to the traditional job fair typically hosted at MHC twice each year.
Shelly Drefs of MHC’s Student Employment & Career Centre says that the collaboration within the partnership group has been exceptional.
“So many people in our community are looking for work, and yet we’ve been told that the current limitations on indoor gatherings have posed as a challenge for employers who are looking to recruit new staff. With a shared goal of meeting a need in our community, our organizations have been working together, sharing our expertise, and finding innovative solutions for facilitating those connections between employers and jobseekers.”
Jodie Engbert, YMCA Employment Centre Manager adds that the first event completely surpassed their expectations.
“Borea Construction was looking for approximately 100 employees for three renewable energy projects in our region and over 220 interviews took place at the drive-thru job fair. Borea has indicated that approximately 75% of the positions for these projects will be filled from the event alone.”
According to both Drefs and Engbert, the partnership group takes care of all logistics from start to finish so that employers can concentrate on doing what they need to fill their current job vacancies.
“It’s really about making things as simple and streamlined for employers as possible,” says Drefs.
Engbert notes that a heightened stress levels felt by jobseekers looking for work during the pandemic has been evident throughout her recent work in the employment sector.
“Hearing their stories on a daily basis, really brings to light the number of families struggling right now. We just want to help them find meaningful employment during this chaotic time, which is why this partnership is so important.”
Drefs agrees, adding, “Ultimately, this collaboration is for our community.”
The next event will take place on Wednesday, November 25, with location and times to be announced.
As space is very limited, employers interested in participating can complete an application form outlining their recruitments needs at: https:// medicinehatymca.ca/DriveThru. Applications will be accepted until November 9 at noon.
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Medicine Hat College is dedicated to growing a vibrant future with learners and our region. Proudly serving the communities of southeastern Alberta while welcoming learners from around the globe, Medicine Hat College offers more than 40 certificate, diploma, degree, trades, and university studies programs. We meet learners where they’re at and prepare them for success in college, in the workforce, and in life. To learn how we’re here for you, visit www.mhc.ab.ca.