ASHEVILLE, NC – About 1,500 people attended a job fair sponsored by A-B Tech and the office of U.S. Rep. Heath Shuler Aug. 26 at the College’s Enka site.
“When we look at workforce development in the region, A-B Tech is the nucleus,” Shuler said. “What better fit, than to hold a job fair with the driving force behind economic development.”
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, JobLink and AdvantageWest were also partners of the fair, which featured 55 local businesses looking to fill 500 positions. Industries included education, construction, health care, manufacturing, hospitality, financial services, janitorial and retail.
A-B Tech President Hank Dunn welcomed participants to the event and introduced Shuler. “We hope you find what you are looking for. We’re here to help you,” he said.
C.J. Wolff of Asheville, a student at A-B Tech taking Human Resources Development courses, said she was looking for office work. “I am hoping to find something there that will be a fit,” she said. “I think you should always go to a job fair, even if the jobs aren’t what you are looking for. It’s good to network and to keep your face and resume out there.”
Joseph Scotto, A-B Tech graduate and Club Floor supervisor at The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa, was in attendance representing the hotel. “We have more than 60 positions we are hoping to fill. I love helping out at these events and to offer jobs.”
“If we can change just one family’s life, we have made a difference,” Shuler said. “Hopefully, with over 500 jobs available, we can change over 500 families. Even in this tough environment, these businesses have jobs available.”