Hire a Patriot job fair Thursday

A job fair catering specifically to veterans and military personnel is returning to American Legion Post 113 on Ring Road in Elizabethtown this week.

The third annual Hire a Patriot job fair, slated for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, is a networking opportunity sponsored by the Office of Employment and Training in conjunction with the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans Association, Disabled American Veterans, WQXE and WULF.

Hector Cruz, a local veterans employment representative and event organizer, said there is room for up to 40 employers and roughly 33 companies have signed up representing military and civilian sectors. Companies lined up to participate are Akebono, Better Business Bureau, Communicare, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, the Lincoln Trail Area Development District and the U.S. Army, Cruz said.

The fair has been assembled locally to align employers with dependable job seekers and put more veterans and reservists to work, further lowering the military unemployment rate, according to Cruz. He said it can be hard for certain veterans, such as the disabled, to find jobs once they leave active duty.

He recommended prospective applicants dress professionally and show up mentally prepared for job interviews. A strong, reputable resume also is a bonus for those needing employment, he said. Visitors also should bring proof of military service, such as the DD214, VA or military ID card, he said.

The job fair has “extended the welcome mat” to active duty members and their families this year. Cruz said some active duty military members may desire a second job and should take advantage of opportunities at the fair.

When asked about the feedback for previous job fairs, Cruz said employers have complimented the layout of the American Legion facility and the pool of applicants the fair attracts.

“It has been positive,” he said.

Marty Finley can be reached at (270) 505-1762 or mfinley@thenewsenterprise.com.