For the first time ever, the “Compass Career Fair” was hosted at the University of Portland in partnership with NW Veterans in Technology (NWVIT). The career fair brought together diverse and talented attendees seeking opportunities in the technology sector. The event aimed to bridge the gap between veterans’ skills and the growing demand for tech expertise.
Says NWVIT President, Josh Johnston, “We (NWVIT) can’t be more appreciative of the University of Portland and their partnership with this event. By all measures it was an objective success, and all of that success was made possible by the amazing team here at UP. We’re looking forward to all of amazing things we can do together in the future!”
The Pamplin School of Business was proud to partner with NWVIT in bringing together military-friendly employers to campus including: Columbia Sportswear, Cambia, TriMet, ConMet, OnPoint Credit Union, and many more. Each of the firms hosted a booth and were featured in the “Exhibitor Hall” where attendees could network and share their skills.
The business schools’ Operations and Technology Management (OTM) program worked hard over the summer to help prepare the space and logistics for the fair, including enlisting the help of the active UP Operations Management Association (UPOMA) to help serve as greeters.
Key Highlights:
- Success stats: Registrations: 127, Attendees: 72, Companies that ran booths: 15, Guest speakers: 3, On the spot hires (!!) 1
- Industry Engagement: The fair witnessed active participation from leading technology companies, providing veterans with a direct platform to engage with recruiters and hiring managers. Representatives from renowned firms showcased the range of opportunities available and offered insights into the skills and experiences they value.
- Networking Opportunities: Attendees had the chance to network with both industry professionals and fellow veterans. The event facilitated meaningful connections, allowing veterans to share their experiences, exchange insights, and build valuable contacts within the tech community.
- Panel Discussions and Workshops: Informative panel discussions and skill-building workshops were organized, featuring successful veterans who have transitioned into thriving tech careers. These sessions provided practical advice on navigating the job market, developing in-demand skills, and addressing challenges specific to veterans.
- Resume Reviews and Career Counseling: Veterans had the opportunity to receive personalized feedback on their resumes and participate in one-on-one career counseling sessions. This personalized support aimed to enhance their job search strategies and increase their competitiveness in the tech job market.
- Positive Feedback: The fair received positive feedback from both attendees and participating companies. Veterans expressed appreciation for the event’s focus on their unique strengths and the opportunities it provided to connect with employers genuinely interested in hiring from the veteran talent pool.
Conclusion:
The “Compass Career Fair” at the University of Portland emerged as a resounding success, fostering connections between veterans and the technology industry. The event’s inclusive approach, coupled with valuable resources and opportunities, positioned it as a vital initiative in supporting veterans’ successful transition into technology careers.
Connect:
To connect with NW Veterans in Technology, visit – https://www.nwvit.org/