LINN — Last week’s two-day Career Expo at State Tech continues to succeed in providing opportunities for students as employers from across the state of Missouri and the Midwest converged at the Klebba Activity Center.

“One of the reasons we are the employer’s choice is because of the reputation of our students and graduates once they are in the workforce,” said State Tech Director of Career Services Scott Peters, noting that about 1,000 students took part each day. “Many of the employers who hire State Tech students become significant partners for the college, providing support in a number of ways. They invest in us because they believe in what we are doing to prepare tomorrow’s workforce. It’s not only an investment in the college, but the future of their industry.”

More than 425 companies registered for this year’s career expo, similar to last year. The number of employers from outside the state has grown, with more than 15 from other states. There were very few cancellations this year, as warm weather ensured the majority of the employers were able to travel without encountering inclement weather.

Peters noted the two-day expo includes two sessions each day, with programs assigned a specific day to attend.

“It’s necessary to assign students and employers to a specific day based on the number of employers and the number of students,” said Peters.

The first day is focused on the healthcare, diesel, automotive, civil construction, and utility industries.

On the second day, the focus shifts to the manufacturing, business, computer programming, industrial construction, and agriculture industries.

“We don’t know the exact number of jobs offered on the day of the event,” said Peters, adding that many employers stay for interviews on both days and make offers based on those interviews. “An automotive employer made an offer on the spot. Besides having the skills they needed for the position, the student blew them away with his personality and enthusiasm. It was exactly what they were looking for in an employee.”

Peters also noted that many employers said they enjoyed coming to the State Tech Career Expo because students are very engaging. “They walk in prepared with a resume; they make eye contact and approach the employer with a firm handshake,” he added.

State Tech’s efforts are becoming more widespread, but Peters said there are still companies without experience at the college. “I am always surprised by the dozen or more employers that come along every year that have never heard of State Tech,” he said. “Many of them hire an intern or one employee, have a great experience, and come back the next year wanting to hire 10 more just like the one they hired.”

State Tech President Dr. Shawn Strong is happy to showcase the school. “We do one thing and we do it better than anyone,” he said. “We get students great jobs and begin rewarding careers. Our top position in the WalletHub ranking shows we are third in the country with regard to ‘Career Outcomes,’ demonstrating we don’t just talk about great careers, we deliver. The Career Expo is our flagship event to connect students and employers and begin great careers.”

Plans are underway for next year’s Career Expo.