2018 Career Expo

Job fairs are a great place for many future entrepreneurs to settle on a vocation of their liking. Ranging from college graduates, veterans, or jack-of-all-trades, all desire for a role to contribute. No ability goes to waste when they’re put to the test in a desired organization. This year’s Career Expo, they’ve provided as much opportunities for people like you.

I took a visit to the annual Career Expo hosted within the Holley Center of Florida State University. From experience, I’ve never been to a major job fair like this, so I’ve decided to take a look around. I’ve signed in and entered the Holley Center, and I was surprised by the plethora of booths representing various organizations.

I couldn’t wrap my head around such a massive number of organizations here, but it’s fascinating how there are young opportunists looking for a substantial career. The center’s not big enough to host more than 40 booths, but it was enough to intrigue enough ambitious students to visit and be granted with a brief interview.

Open Opportunities

Upon my first visit, I had no idea which booth to visit. If I were to pretend I was looking for a career, I have to start searching for a booth that’s available for my major. There’s many spots representing the companies they’re working at, and as much I want to visit all of them, I feel I should check on those worthy of my interest.

There were a few life insurance companies like Liberty National, for example. There are rental companies like Sunbelt Rentals, which lends construction equipment and tools for DIY projects.

Then there’s security applications from the Bay County Police Department and G4S USA, but unfortunately I lack the skills and physical capabilities to be either a police officer or a security officer.

There are booking companies such as Bookit.com. They specialize in booking for airlines flights, and hotels from exotic places for at least $95 for each guest and for each night. They also provide tourism and activities that can take you to places like Ancient Rome and the Grand Canyon.

What Else is There?

Rosemary Beach is also looking for potential applicants for their retail stores. They want to provide great hospitality and make the beach a relaxing vacation spot for beach-goers.

This one was intriguing to me, they’re friendly people and the job opportunities they provided are good enough to recommend if you live in or near Rosemary Beach. There’s Guest Services Agent, which is providing hospitality to  visitors. Maintenance Technician is basically the repair man, but for electric, plumbing, appliances, etc. Lastly, Retail Sales Associate is providing customer service at their retail stores.

There’s a company known as Yulista Aviations that provides aerospace and defense solutions. They’re committed to be the best-equipped Alaska Native Corporation (ANC) in the world. They’ve specialized in engineering and manufacturing for military purposes; Yulista has built helicopters, planes, and other airborne vehicles. They have also done maintenance and modifications on their creations.

It’s an engineer’s dream when it comes to Yulista, everyone there is treated like they’re part of a family. They live by their slogan, “Making the Impossible, Possible”, and they have proved it before. Whenever a military force needs help, Yulista will craft them any form of reliable transportation.

Anything Local?

Not into any of these listed above? The Career Expo has more than you can fathom. For many that lives locally in Panama City, there are other options available for you.

WJHG is also hiring new applicants for programs such as Panama City’s The CW, News Channel 7, WECPTV 18, and My 7. They provide careers such as Director, Web Producer, Weather Anchor, and Digital Sales Coordinator. For those interested in Broadcast Journalism or just want some experience under their belts, WJHG is a good place to start.

Bay County’s Human Resources Department are also looking for new people to work with. This includes Paramedics, EMTs, and Electrical Technicians. Even though the list is short, it’s best to check on it each day for new opportunities.

The City of Panama City’s Human Resources are searching for help in making the city look polished and safe. They are the ones in charge of paving new roads, constructing new buildings, and keeping the streets clean of trash and criminals. Job listings include Firefighters, City Manager, Public Works, Police Officer, Recreation Worker, and Telecommunicator.

Conclusion

The 2018 Career Expo has a lot in store for many looking for a full-time job. There’s so much one human being can do, but it’s impossible to try everything at once. However, that doesn’t stop you or anyone willing to learn and grow.

This job fair’s held annually, holding only some of the best Bay County can offer. I’ve seen college students there in formal clothing with a physical copy of their resumes in their hands. They’re eager to start their life after college, and it makes me happy that there are many willing to live life to the fullest.

Sure, this Career Expo may have passed, but it’s never too late to pursue what you’ve dreamed about. The door’s open not just for everyone, but for you. All it takes is putting your foot in the door, and enter through.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Michael Lopez

Student Author - Spring 2018