Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
On Friday, April 10, middle and high school students at Craig County High School had an opportunity to find summer employment. Businesses in the region are seeking help for the summer and beyond. Tables were covered with information about the businesses and the opportunities offered. Plenty of free giveaways like water bottles and tshirts grabbed the interest of some students. Others found interesting questions answered by engaged business owners, ready to find their next star employees.
More than 12 businesses (late comers were welcomed) held conversations with students seeking to learn about what the business does, how individuals can qualify for employment, and the benefits of each opportunity. The Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board created the event. Outreach and Events Manager, Emma Howard-Woods, was grateful for the chance to serve Craig County students. “We have the Career Quest Passport I’ll be sharing today, to help students think about what’s next,” Howard-Woods said. Adults were also invited for the final hour of the event, which will be held in the future with later hours.
Mountain Gateway Community College was sharing about careers in forestry. Virginia Tech Extension program and 4H coordinator, Michelle Poff, talked with students curious about options in career paths at Virginia Tech. New Castle summer jobs openings at Camp Bethel and Camp Easter Seals include life guards, kitchen staff, high ropes coordinator and medical staff. Several Hardee’s locations are seeking employees in Salem. Some positions have age requirements.
Catawba Hospital is seeking CNAs and food service staff, along with several internship opportunities. Beth Rhodes, Catawba Hospital Human Resource Analyst, was on hand to explain the diverse options and many benefits of working a few miles from Craig County in Catawba. “We have paid internships, too,” Rhodes explained. Friendship’s Ashley Jewell shared the growing need for more staff in many positions at their facility in Roanoke. Dominion Care also talked about staff for group day centers and in-home services. One high school junior was already planning her career path, “I’m dual-enrolled and will graduate with my CNA,” she proudly stated. Monroe Health Group, which manages the Craig Health Center was represented, and talked with students about health care employment opportunities.
Technical skills positions were the focus of several other employers who were present. Metalsa in Coverdale, Munters Corporations in Daleville, and Wabtec Graham White in Salem all had multiple entry level positions available. The Western Virginia Water Authority, which recently took over management of the local PSA, is also hiring. The event proved valuable for the students and the participating businesses. Another Career Day event is already being planned. Learn more at https://careerquestva.com
Photos by bonnie cranmer
