Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development

The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (MDHEWD), in partnership with the Missouri Association of Manufacturers, will host a Return Strong Virtual Job Fair on Tuesday, March 23.

The fair will feature job openings exclusively from manufacturing companies across the Missouri.

The Return Strong Virtual Job Fairs are part of the state’s efforts to help Missourians skill up and get back to work following the economic downturn caused by layoffs from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Manufacturing is a $40 billion industry in Missouri, a key component of the state’s economy,” said Dr. Mardy Leathers, director of workforce development. “Connecting employers and job seekers in this industry is a big step in the right direction on the road to economic recovery.”

During the fair job seekers statewide will be able to search job listings, meet with hiring organizations, receive tips for resume writing and job interviews, and learn more about Missouri Job Center services and training opportunities.

Manufacturing accounts for approximately 11.2 percent of the state’s private-sector employment. The Missouri Association of Manufacturers is a nonprofit organization that represents the economic, political, educational, and social interests of manufacturers in Missouri. The manufacturing industry has added 17,324 jobs since 2012.

In total, 10 virtual job fairs were scheduled for spring 2021, with several still upcoming. Some fairs will target job seekers and employers from specific industries. Fairs will take place on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the following dates:

• March 9
• March 23 (manufacturing)
• April 6 (health care)
• April 20
• May 4
• May 18 (information technology)
• June 8 (remote & part-time work)

Interested job seekers can register for the March 23 fair, and any of the other upcoming fairs at returnstrongmo.easyvirtualfair.com. Job seekers should create a profile and upload their resumes so employers can easily reach out after the fairs.

The employer deadline to register for the manufacturing fair is Friday, March 12. Employers interested in taking part in other upcoming fairs can register and set up their virtual booths for all fairs at returnstrongmo.getyourbooth.com.

About the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development: The department works to empower Missourians with the skills and education needed for success. More information about MDHEWD can be found at https://dhewd.mo.gov or on Facebook and Twitter @MoDHEWD.

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