By KIM VAN METER
The Gene Bianchi Community Center in Oakdale was bustling with energy on Wednesday, Jan. 15, as the biannual Career Fair brought together job seekers and employers for a dynamic networking event.
Hosted by the Oakdale Chamber of Commerce and Opportunity Stanislaus in cooperation with the City of Oakdale, the fair ran from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and showcased career opportunities in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, hospitality, and more.
With over a dozen employers participating, including prominent names like Foster Farms, Oak Valley Hospital District, and Sierra Pacific Industries, attendees had the chance to explore a wide variety of job openings in the region.
According to Oakdale Mayor Cherilyn Bairos, the diversity of industries represented is one of the event’s biggest draws.
“The variety of employers ensures that there is something for everyone,” Bairos shared. “It’s rewarding to see people leaving with leads and interviews.”
Attendees praised the opportunity to meet potential employers face-to-face, a sentiment echoed by feedback received by the Chamber.
“Many have shared how helpful it is to connect personally with employers and gain insight into available opportunities,” Bairos said.
To alleviate any nervousness job seekers might feel, the organizers focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere and providing clear guidance as attendees arrived.
Opportunity Stanislaus played a key role in handling employer registration. Bairos explained that the organization used a mix of approaches to recruit participants, ensuring a diverse array of local and regional businesses.
Employers interested in hosting a booth must meet specific criteria, including actively hiring for at least two or more full-time positions. This standard, combined with the event’s focus on variety, helps to ensure job seekers have access to meaningful opportunities.
Looking ahead, Bairos shared exciting plans for the next Career Fair in August.
“We’re preparing an information sheet for job seekers to help them navigate the event, along with tips on professional conduct and confidence-boosting strategies,” she revealed. Additionally, Opportunity Stanislaus plans to host a resumé workshop ahead of the event, offering attendees personalized guidance to enhance their resumés.
For Mayor Bairos, the energy of the event is what she enjoys most.
“The excitement of attendees exploring opportunities and the enthusiasm from employers to connect with potential candidates is truly inspiring,” she said.
The January Career Fair proved once again to be a valuable resource for Oakdale and the surrounding area, helping bridge the gap between job seekers and employers and contributing to local economic growth.
