JACKSONVILLE, N.C. - Military members devote their lives to protecting their country and facing dangers others would run from. Some of these service members leave the armed forces wounded and disabled, making the transition to civilian life a challenge.
Disabled veterans were able to search for employment during the “Hire a Veteran Week” job fair hosted at the Disabled American Veterans Hall in Jacksonville, Nov. 14.
“It’s phenomenal knowing veterans and retirees who are looking forward to getting back to the job market have an opportunity to meet employers through this job fair,” said Renard T. Singleton, a retired staff sergeant who attended the fair.
The North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solution joined with Onslow County Job Links and Disabled American Veterans to host the event.
“This has been a really exciting event because we’re hoping to provide an opportunity for the veterans to find a job or career,” said Gail S. Horn, a veteran employment consultant with North Carolina Division of Workforce Solution. “Employers are looking to hire people to work in the county as well as internationally.”
More than 130 jobseekers attended the event, which had more than 35 employers offering jobs ranging from media promotions to border patrol.
“Every aspect of this fair is interesting because of the variety of job markets,” said Singleton. “There are job openings in different corporations here assisting greatly in putting [veterans] in the right spot to help them be as successful, if not more so, as they were in the military.”
Companies are eager to hire military members because they know about the quality of the veterans, said Singleton.
“You cannot find a more dedicated individual then those who have served our country,” said Lea Griggs, a human resources technician with Marine Corps Community Services. “They make the ultimate sacrifice every day. Our military members are near and dear to our heart and being able to serve those who served us faithfully is our commitment.”
Employers collected resumes’ and conducted casual interviews. It was also a chance for jobseekers to market themselves to different companies face-to-face.
“Resources like this fair couldn’t be better,” said Singleton. “You have companies reaching out to veterans who served their time to keep the freedom in this country. Employers know the leadership skills and reliability we have through our military brother and sisterhood can also be greatly employed into the career paths of their companies.”