From Recent Grads to Seasoned Workers, Career Expo Is a Key Event for WNY Jobseekers

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Jobseekers and career changers of all experience levels, from recent grads to those who have been in the workforce for decades, are encouraged to attend the Western New York Career Resource Expo on May 25 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Burt Flickinger Athletic Center, Erie Community College City Campus, 21 Oak Street in Buffalo.

The Western New York Career Resource Expo is free and open to the public.

It is being sponsored by a partnership between the Western New York Association of College Career Centers (WNYACCC), the Buffalo Niagara Human Resource Association and the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. More information is available at http://www.EmployMeWNY.org

Approximately 2,000 people attended last year's expo and organizers are predicting another well-attended community event.

"The goal of the expo is to provide information on resources, education and employment tools," said Joe Meyer, expo chair and a member of WNYACCC. "It also will provide expert advice to those in the Western New York community who are starting or building a career or who may be in a career transition."

Experts from local companies, organizations and schools will be on hand to provide information on job-search assistance, educational and training opportunities, credit counseling resources and other supportive services to individuals in transition.

This year's attendees will have access to local educational and training agencies and organizations in the Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; education sessions featuring career-related workshops and expert panelists from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; one-on-one resume critiquing by experts from noon to 3:00 p.m. and 5-6 p.m.; and a networking reception offering interactions with local employer representatives from 3:30-6 p.m.

"This is a wonderful collaboration between the career services departments of the region's colleges and universities, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership and the Buffalo Niagara Human Resource Association," said Arlene F. Kaukus, director of the University at Buffalo's Career Services Department. "As a participant, the UB Career Services Department is pleased to support this collaborative response to needs in our region."

She notes that 40 employers are expected to be present to provide advice to jobseekers.

All participants are volunteers. Local companies, organizations and colleges have offered to provide their time and services to support local job seekers during these challenging economic times.