Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance President and CEO Jon Cross announced two new initiatives for 2017 during the Alliance Christmas Luncheon.  

The organization will develop a student focused job and career fair, as well as the formation of the “Young Professionals Alliance” for those ranging in age of 21 – 40, under the umbrella of the Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance organization.

As part of its ongoing workforce development strategies, the Alliance will host a new “Hardin County Student Job & Career Fair” in February 2017 for graduating seniors and college students.  Nearly 500+ twelfth grade students from local school districts throughout Hardin County, as well as area college students, will be invited to meet with several local and regional businesses that are recruiting full-time or part-time employment, summer jobs and internship opportunities. Businesses expected to participate will range from careers in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, education, financial, healthcare, retail and service industry.   

“As a first of its kind event for our community, not only does it give students the opportunity to explore more career pathways and interview for job opportunities, it allows businesses to recruit a skilled and viable workforce, and helps our community attract and retain a younger generation to live, work and prosper in Hardin County,” said Jon Cross, who also serves as the director of economic development.

The student job & career fair will be held at the Kenton Senior High School gymnasium on Friday, Feb. 10,  from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.  Businesses, at no cost, can preregister by contacting the Alliance at 419-673-4131.  Each participant will be supplied with a table and chairs.

 In addition, the Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance will launch the “Young Professionals Alliance” to allow professionals, entrepreneurs, small business owners, teachers, doctors, nurses, lawyers, farmers, manufacturers, realtors, and many other career industries throughout Hardin County the opportunity to come together for networking, educational and social opportunities.  

Last year, the Alliance met with 30 plus young professionals to discuss the formation and experiences they would like to participate in to help with their networking or career development focus.  Details will be announced in early 2017 about the first organized gathering. 

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Young Professionals Alliance, please email your name and contact information to [email protected].