June 07, 2017
Yakima, WA – With resumes in hand and collared shirts freshly-ironed, hundreds of students made lasting connections with potential future employers at the Perry Tech Spring Expo. The expo was the largest to date, bringing in 75 companies from across the United States and Canada to Perry Tech. More than 165 representatives were on hand to meet the students, network, and even conduct on-campus interviews.
The Perry Tech Career Services Department helped students prepare for the exciting event. "We really work closely with them on how to make the most out of the expo," said Anna Jackson, Career Services Specialist at Perry Tech. "Preparing by having copies of their resumes, having their 60-second pitch ready, preparing questions that they want to ask, how to behave professionally, and lots of advice on appropriate attire. We go out a couple weeks before the event to every single class to give them these tips that are specific to their section."
All twelve Perry Tech programs were represented at the expo, which has grown tremendously since it began years ago. Almost half of the companies who attended this year were participating for the first time, and students could research companies ahead of time to decide how to prioritize their conversations, so they didn't miss any opportunities.
Jackson says there's value for every student, no matter how far along they are in school. "It's the relationship that they begin with these companies. Especially because they typically return to the following expo. Collecting business cards and starting their own tracking process for perspective employers.
Companies described the great quality of employees who consistently come out of Perry Tech, which keeps them coming back to the institution for events like these. "I think Perry Tech is an excellent school and produces some of the most highly skilled workers available," said Beth Klingele, Controller for Tri-Ply construction.
The next Perry Tech Employer Expo will take place on September 13th, and all alumni who are seeking employment are invited to attend.
