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Hundreds of area high school seniors are taking the time to decide what they’ll do after graduation. At the recent Careers Made in Marion Expo, a record 31 employers and educators showcased the variety of options available in the community, including higher education, trades, military, workforce, and more.
“Marion is growing and thriving, and it’s great to be able to show that there are so many options available in our vibrant community.” said Gus Comstock, executive director of Marion CANDO!, which helps businesses expand.
“Great experience. Very helpful”
Seniors participated from Elgin, Harding, Pleasant, Ridgedale, River Valley, Tri-Rivers Career Center, TRECA and Buckeye Valley. Exhibitors presented options from the finance, manufacturing, logistics, education, public services, automotive industry, construction, military and medical sectors.
“It was very helpful and interesting,” the Tri-Rivers senior said.
“The layout was great and very well organized. It wasn’t too crowded and had a lot of useful information,” the Ridgedale student said.
A representative from each company or option will be available to speak in small groups and answer questions.
“It’s been a great experience. It’s helped me a lot,” the River Valley senior said.
The Made in Marion Expo began in 2019 to showcase the manufacturing options available in Marion. In 2023, it has evolved to include more areas. Over five years, more than 2,000 students have had the opportunity to learn about Marion County business and industry.
How Marion students can connect with local workforce options
The expo is the brainchild of Tami Galloway, program manager at America’s Workforce Development Capital, and highlights the many training options to meet the needs of local businesses and employees.
“The career that took place in Marion in 2019 was a dream come true,” Galloway said. “This event has evolved into what it is today, becoming a way to connect high school seniors’ immediate future workforce with local employers and show them the options they have to attend secondary school.” , it is possible to get a job after graduation and have a lifelong career here at Marion. ”
A committee made up of various schools, institutions and universities made the Expo possible. OhioMeansJobs – Marion County rented the Veterans Memorial Coliseum at the county fairgrounds for the expo.
A “showcase of excellence” for local businesses
While many local employers are known for one field, such as manufacturing or healthcare, this event was an opportunity to highlight the different opportunities at each company, including accounting, engineering, human resources, IT, marketing, and more. I did.
“This event was a great showcase of the local talent, business, innovation, and educational institutions that make the Marion community unique,” said Tracy Schilling of The Ohio State University, Marion. I was thrilled to meet entrepreneurs and industry leaders.” Join forces to highlight “Made in Marion” products and services. ”
Schilling also emphasized how involved students are with exhibitors. Exhibitors were able to meet potential workers as well as learn about the larger business community.
“The organization of the event was impressive as always, with a wide variety of exhibitors and informative sessions that provided valuable insight into the local industry and educational opportunities for potential students.” said Schilling. Marion’s businesses have a significant impact on the local economy and beyond. ”
