Expo introduces Lejeune community to career, educational opportunities

Marine Corps Installations East
Story by Cpl. Charles Clark

Date: 09.25.2013
Posted: 10.02.2013 15:46
News ID: 114623
Expo introduces Lejeune community to career, educational opportunities

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Since 1985, the National Job Fair and Education Expo has been a venue for the military community to meet with potential employers and learn of educational opportunities.

Held twice a year, the National Job Fair and Education Expo arrived at Goettge Memorial Field House aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Sept. 25.

More than 140 employers and education representatives greeted and conversed with more than 1,000 active duty and reserve service members, their families, retirees and Coastal Carolina Community College students.

Lee M. Tuthill, a transition support specialist with Marine and Family Programs, put together the list of companies and learning facilities for the expo.

“The reason why all the companies and colleges are coming here is because they want to hire people who are reliable and hard workers,” said Tuthill. “Every employer and university here is required to have job openings for the people who attend.”

Education representatives from colleges and universities across the country provided information for enrollment and teaching opportunities.

“We’re looking for people with a drive and a passion to excel in life,” said Jesse P. Bernal, the veteran coordinator for the New York Film Academy. “I served seven years and know firsthand how difficult it is to make the jump to civilian life and work on a career path. This whole expo really makes it easy for service members to get ahead of the curve as they look to the future.”

The diverse group of employers ranged from auto body repair, police and fire departments, waste management and freight companies.

“No two people are going to want the same thing in life, so having this many different companies in one spot really gives a broad spectrum of opportunities for any Marine who came here,” said Cpl. Joseph R. Barrett, an automotive mechanic with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25. “If I’m unable to re-enlist, I want to know I will be able to provide for my family. Having both educational opportunities and hiring companies in the same place makes me feel very confident I will be able to maintain a stable life for myself and my loved ones when I get out of the military.”

For more information, call the transition assistance program at 451-5627 or the education center at 451-3091.

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