CONESTOGA COLLEGE
Motive Power job fair connects work-ready students with employers

Students gained valuable insights into the diverse career opportunities within the motive power field at the gathering held on March 25, while employers connected with talented, workplace-ready individuals eager to apply their knowledge and skills in a professional role.

The job fair welcomed 37 local automotive, heavy-duty equipment and truck and coach employers interested in hiring Conestoga students and apprentices.

Metro Truck Group, a full-range service centre for heavy trucks and trailers with shops across Ontario, was pleased with the good quality of candidates and shared multiple resumes with several locations.

"This was our third year attending, and this year was the best for student talent. The majority of our booth visitors had great questions for us, had reliable transportation and were open to all our Metro Truck locations, which broadened opportunities."

Joel Ravi, a student in the Motive Power Technician - Automotive Service program, appreciated all the companies who joined the fair and how approachable they were.

"What stood out to me was how genuinely interested many of the employers were in hiring students. The representatives were welcoming, informative and made it easy to have meaningful conversations about potential opportunities."

Even better, the fair was a great success for Ravi, who secured a position at a Kitchener automotive dealer.

"I'd highly encourage other students to attend future job fair. It's not just about finding a job, but also about building connections and gaining confidence in a professional setting."

For Kenzie Scheklesky, also in the Motive Power Technician - Automotive Service program, the event was a venue to connect as well as practise soft skills that are important on the job.

"The job fair was a great opportunity to not only explore job possibilities, but to build connections and gain valuable information. Overall, it was a very welcoming and approachable environment. The numerous interactions provided opportunity to build communication and interpersonal skills."

Conestoga offers a range of programs in the motive power field: Motive Power Fundamentals - Automotive Repair, Motive Power Technician - Automotive Service, Motive Power Technician - Heavy Duty Equipment, Motive Power Techniques - Heavy Duty Equipment Repair, Heavy Construction Equipment Operation, Motive Power Technician - Truck and Coach and Motive Power Techniques - Truck and Coach Repair.

Find out more about these programs and others offered through the School of Trades & Apprenticeship.