During a Business Panel event sponsored by the Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation (AAWDC) last week, representatives from the county’s high-growth industries met with an audience of motivated job seekers. Discussing how applicants can position themselves to land available opportunities, employers detailed the skills job seekers need to set themselves apart. Held at the Columbian Center in Severna Park, participants were able to meet one-on-one with representatives from Anne Arundel Health System, Anne Arundel County government, AIRMALL Maryland, Associated Builders and Contractors – Chesapeake Chapter, Chesapeake Bay Candle/Pacific Trade International, Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport/Aloft BWI Airport, and Manpower.
“This was a great opportunity for job seekers to ask in-depth questions to learn more about specific industries, companies, job opportunities and career opportunities – all in a less frantic atmosphere than that of a job fair,” said Sallie Sarelas, Business Services director at AAWDC. “Employers had the opportunity to talk directly to prospective job candidates in a relaxed atmosphere.”
The innovative program continues with a second Business Panel on Thursday, April 18, with employers from Northrop Grumman, Johns Hopkins Community Physicians, Berry Plastics, B & R Construction Services, and Amerigroup.
“With more than 12,000 job openings in Anne Arundel County,” said AAWDC President and CEO Kirkland Murray, “we are committed to helping create win-win opportunities to match businesses in the area with qualified candidates seeking employment; and thereby, doing our part to contribute to the economic growth of the county.”
“What Employers REALLY Want” Business Panels are part of AAWDC’S Back-to-Work Month, a series of FREE workshops and events offered for all levels of job seekers, including new graduates, 50+ workers, entry-level, mid-career, seasoned professionals and veterans. Participants are able to attend programs throughout the entire month of April, covering areas such as resume renovation, interviewing success, security clearance / federal jobs, 50+ rebranding and career assessment. Participants are able to hear from businesses representing high-demand industries, such as Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Green Jobs / Construction, Hospitality, Energy and Health Care and participate in “Speed Recruiting,” a matching program with prescreened applicants.
For more details on Back-to-Work Month and to view a complete schedule, visit www.aawdc.org or call 410-424-3275.
