WHEATFIELD – Kankakee Valley High School held a Jasper County Career Awareness Fair on Tuesday, December 6th. High school and college groups came to the auxiliary gymnasium to hear presentations from six Jasper County-based employers.
The “fair” was designed by Stephen Eastridge, executive director of the Jasper County Economic Development Organization. It was intended to show children approaching working age that they don’t have to leave the county to find opportunities for high-paying jobs and benefits.
The original goal was to have between nine and 12 employers, but due to scheduling issues, only six attended. All were represented by two or three employees who gave short presentations about their company to small groups of students and then took the time to answer questions.
Represented were Castongia, Rieth-Riley, REMC, Conagra, Chief Industries and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department. All said they are currently hiring and looking for employees who will stay and grow with the companies.
Many have emphasized regular attendance, punctuality and the ability to learn new things as essential qualities for keeping a good job once you get it.
The eyes of many widened when the Conagra team explained how they made 1.2 billion bags of microwave popcorn in 2021, more than 50% of all popcorn sold in the world. world.
Chief Industries explained how they fabricated steel buildings like the gymnasium the students were in and fabricated many of the favored buildings for manufacturing, commercial, community and agricultural buildings. Each structure is designed to meet the specific needs of the client.
Jasper County REMC staff spoke of the many job opportunities, ranging from lineman positions to technology positions available at the co-op. They have been particularly focused on their current drive to provide countywide internet service to accompany the electric service currently being provided.
Reith-Riley employees talked about building and paving their roads statewide and how there are always roads to build or rebuild, making it a very stable company with a variety entry-level jobs as well as the ability to relocate. at the top.
The folks at Castongia talked about how they employ everything from selling and servicing farm tools and gardening and lawn equipment to tech specialists.
The final presentation was made by two officers from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department who spoke about opportunities ranging from patrol and investigation to communications and positions at the jail.
This is the second time this event has taken place, but the first time middle schoolers have been included.
