The Hospitality Tourism and Career Fair, hosted by the Biddeford + Saco Chamber of Commerce + Industry in conjunction with York County Career Center at the Hampton Inn in Saco, drew about 70 job seekers, organizers say.
A roomful of employers, including hotels, social service agencies, campgrounds, amusement parks, the Biddeford School Department and the Maine Veterinary Medical Center, had set up tables and had representatives eager to talk to those looking for employment and give them applications.
Bridget Conley, general manager for Hampton Inn in Saco, said events like Monday’s career fair are helpful.
“Hiring is tough, especially for seasonal positions,” she said. “There are so many companies looking for seasonal help.”
Job seeker Rebecca Rodriguez of Biddeford came prepared with a folder of resumes in hand, and was filling out applications on the spot.
“Right now I’m looking for anything,” she said.
Lisa Michaud of Lyman said she has a job that is currently full-time but needs work in the summers. She said the career fair offered the opportunity to meet a variety of different employers in one location.
Erica Daigle, with Cafua Management, was looking for employees for area Dunkin Donuts shops. She said they were hiring for “all shifts, all locations” and encouraged anyone interested to apply.
Biddeford + Saco Chamber of Commerce + Industry Executive Director Craig Pendleton said the chamber and career center decided to host a job fair in the spring this year rather than in the fall along with the annual business expo, after hearing from employers in the hospitality and tourism industry that a spring job fair would better suit their needs.
Pendleton said there were a lot of opportunities available, especially for high school and college students looking for a first job or summer employment.
He said despite the turn out, the event provided a good service to the community and was a good opportunity for local businesses to connect with the local workforce. Pendleton said the chamber is looking into possibly partnering with other area chambers for future job fairs.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].
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