April 12, 2019

Job opportunities aplenty, varied at Hinds CC District job fair

250 students network with nearly two dozen Mississippi employers
BY: Danny Barrett Jr.
RAYMOND – Bobby Huddleston is still counting down the days until graduation this semester, but he’s already job-hunting and making contacts.

Bobby Huddleston, right, of Jackson, talks with Angie Owens, HR director for Vicksburg-based Unified Brands, during the Spring 2019 Jobs for Eagles job fair held April 10 in Mayo Gym on the Raymond Campus. (Hinds Community College/April Garon)

“I’m looking for something in what I’m studying, which is HVAC,” said Huddleston, of Jackson, among 250 or so Hinds students at the 2019 Jobs for Eagles job fair held April 10 in Mayo Gym on the Raymond Campus.

Career and technical fields such as construction, manufacturing, electrical and carpentry were represented at information stations set up in the gym, along with recruiters in public safety and the military.

“I’m trying to get my foot in the door and make a good impression,” said Denver Romero, of Vicksburg, who along with classmates in Electrical Technology visited with recruiters in heavy industry such as Continental Tire and B&B Electrical and Utility Contractors.

From left, Austin Muirhead, Denver Romero, Joseph High and Gage Ederington, all of Vicksburg, visit the Continental Tire table during the Spring 2019 Jobs for Eagles job fair held April 10 in Mayo Gym on the Raymond Campus. At right is Yevette Davis, a talent acquisition employee with the company. (Hinds Community College/April Garon)

The expo itself gives students a chance to personalize their search in other ways, as they visit with each employer participating in the event. Cameron Gates, also of Vicksburg, is studying in the Precision Manufacturing and Machining Technology program and wants to turn a pastime into a possible career.

“I already make small chains as a hobby, so I wanted to talk with Laclede Chain about their machinery,” Gates said.

Soumya Dhingra, of Clinton, is studying to be an accountant and looked up various opportunities with Entergy, among other employers present at the annual event.

“I’m interested in internships and also looking to get some experience,” Dhingra said.