FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
In light of a staggering economy, employment opportunities are slowly moving forward. Since July 15, the Virginia unemployment rate has decreased to 6.1 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Report.
At Joint Base Langley-Eustis, the Army Career and Alumni Program teamed up with the Virginia Employment Commission for their bi-annual Job Fair at the Fort Eustis Club Sept. 8. Hundreds of transitioning active-duty, military spouses, veterans and civilians came out seeking an employment opportunity.
"This is a yearly requirement and our role at ACAP is to assist transitioning servicemembers and prepare them to be successful in the civilian sector, but not to exclude military spouses, veterans and civilian personnel," said Reba D. Gordon, ACAP transition services manager. "We help with job searches and employment opportunities and our job fair is another way to place those that are in transition with an employer."
According to Gordon, there were 45 employers available; government contractors, and private business and employment resource stations, which consisted of a myriad of job programs and opportunities.
"This is always a great event for those individuals looking for employment. We encourage all prospective employees to dress like they are going on an interview, and bring copies of their resumes that have been targeted to the agencies we've listed," said Gordon.
In March, more than 2,000 job seekers came out to meet employers and various other agencies. Gordon said the feedback was wonderful because many people received jobs.
"The employers have been very happy because they've had short notice requirements and many people were able to meet them, so today we expect similar results," she added. "We also invite employers who are friendly to military spouses. We want it to be a winning situation for both seekers and employers."
Sgt. Elton Gofoe, 510th Human Resources Company, and wife, Autumn, were both on the chase for future employment at the job fair.
"There is so much information available, you can't miss the opportunity to network and meet people," Autumn said. Her husband, who has served seven years in the Army, is preparing for his transition back into the civilian community.
"I have a few months left in the Army and this is an opportune time for my wife and I to take the next step toward a second career path," Elton said. "The economy is being challenged right now and I want to get ahead of the curve. There are a lot of opportunities here so we are just praying for the best."