October 6, 2016

Medicine Hat College’s (MHC) Career Expo will take place on October 19, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on campus.

This annual event helps connect jobseekers with employers who are hiring for career positions, highlights career pathways, and creates an opportunity for attendees to explore how their current skills can transfer to a new field.

“People can be nervous about making a career change because they are unsure of what occupation their skills are best suited for. This event will help them explore this further and allow them to meet employers, and HR personnel, in a casual environment to see what’s possible,” says Shelly Drefs, career services assistant.

MHC is pleased to welcome some new exhibitors this year, including the Families in Transition (FIT) program. FIT is a collaboration between Medicine Hat Family Services Association, the YMCA Employment Centre and McMan Youth Family and Community Services, who are working together to provide additional assistance to jobseekers and families impacted by job loss. Other career service providers will also be available to outline their employment services.  

According to Drefs the Career Expo also provides an opportunity for individuals to gain insight into jobs that may not be advertised.

“Many active postings are not advertised by traditional means but are part of the “hidden job market”. We encourage attendees to keep an open mind, avoid making assumptions about employers and stop by all of the booths, because you never know what opportunity might be available.”

One example that Drefs gives is that often jobseekers feel health providers are solely looking for trained medical professionals, however many of the facilities also require tradespersons, power engineers, accountants, clerks, IT and security personnel.

For those seeking a career change but concerned by the length of training required, Drefs suggests they attend and ask questions.

“Often people will assume that many of the careers that interest them require lengthy training or full-time enrolment in school, however that’s not always the case. Many options are available online and in condensed formats. For example the home inspection and occupational health and safety certificates are both offered through Continuing Studies,” says Drefs. “We really just encourage everyone to attend the Career Expo because you never know what information you might find out.”

Currently, there are over 40 exhibitors registered from a variety of industries ranging from education and natural resources to retail and recreation. For a full list, visit www.mhc.ab.ca. Individuals are encouraged to check back as the list will be updated regularly.