JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – More than 60 employers packed Jones Technical Institute’s campus recently to recruit students training for careers in the skilled trades.
The career fair brought 63 companies to the trade school, giving students in programs such as diesel technology a chance to meet hiring managers and apply for jobs before graduation. News4Jax video crews were on site covering the event.
“I’m in the diesel program here at J-Tech and that’s what I’m looking to do — work in diesel shops, wherever it may be,” said Alex Licul, a diesel student. “At least here at J-Tech, the companies come out to you. You tell them what you’re doing, what you are looking to do, and they really help place you. You’ve got a job right out of school.”
Elronrico Washington, another diesel student, said the program teaches diagnostics and repairs and that employers encouraged him to apply when he finishes his course. “Honestly, it makes me feel great,” he said. “It’s kind of hard to just find a job you want and meet the right people. When these people come out here and show love like they do, it makes it easier to apply or to see which way you want to go.”
Employers said bringing recruiting to campus helps them find and train workers for multiple roles. Jim Moyer, campus director for the St. Augustine Porsche and Mercedes service centers, said he began as an apprentice mechanic and worked his way up, and he sees the industry offering long-term career opportunities. “You can have a lifelong career and grow,” he said.
Jeff Roberson, vice president of service operations for Vanguard Truck Center, said the dealer group — which represents Volvo and Mack trucks across 39 locations nationwide — is looking to hire and develop technicians and other dealership staff. “If we grab them now, we have a chance to actually help train them and mold them into great technicians,” he said.
Jones Technical Institute holds four career fairs a year. Find more from our TradeUp series in the features section of News4Jax.com. Video and photos from the career fair were captured by News4Jax photojournalist Matt Garcia.