Delta students seeking jobs have been given a helping hand thanks to recent Hiring Fairs at both South Delta Secondary School (SDSS) and Delta Secondary School (DSS). Students in grades 10-12 were able to mix and mingle with a variety of local employers and explore potential job opportunities in greater detail.
On Thursday, March 6, SDSS welcomed Cookies Ice Cream Co, Bass Pro Shops, the Delta Chamber of Commerce, Big Splash, McDonalds - Tsawwassen and Four Winds Brewery & Restaurant to the school, where more than 100 students interacted with employers to learn about available positions and job responsibilities.
"We know there are many employers looking to fill gaps in their businesses and organizations," said Pam Cheng, Career and Post Secondary Advisor, South Delta Secondary. "Instead of collecting applications or resumes during the Hiring Fair, we asked each employer to display a QR code that students could scan, leading to the organization's hiring page. This allowed students to discuss opportunities with friends and family, update their resume before applying, and avoid the pressure of applying for a role on the spot."
Employers expressed their satisfaction with the event, appreciating the opportunity to connect with so many students. SDSS hopes to make the Hiring Fair an annual spring event.
On Monday, March 10, DSS held its Hiring Fair, welcoming the Delta Chamber of Commerce, Pedal Heads, McDonalds, Big Splash, Cookies Ice Cream Co, and Fraser Health (volunteer program). Flyers from Bancy Farms were also available with information for students on how to apply for available positions. More than 70 students attended the event.
"Events like these are incredibly valuable. It is increasingly difficult for students to find their first job as many employers only accept online applications, and job seekers often receive no feedback on their applications. The Hiring Fair gave students a chance to explore different opportunities, network with potential employers and develop essential job-seeking skills. These events help students build confidence and gain insights into the job market, ultimately giving them a head start on their careers. Hiring Fairs are equally important for employers, who can chat with students, make connections, and see firsthand how these students might fit into their organizations," said Kim Jew, Career and Post-Secondary Advisor at Delta Secondary.
At DSS, Career Life Education teacher Kristin Visscher helped prepare Grade 10 students by practicing interview skills and reviewing resumes in their Career Life Education classes. This preparation, combined with the opportunity to engage directly with employers in a familiar and supportive environment, gave students the confidence to explore job opportunities they might not have previously considered.
"The feedback from both students and employers has been fantastic. Pedal Heads and Big Splash hire more than 300 and 200 students respectively every year, so the Hiring Fairs were much appreciated. A huge shout-out to Cookies Ice Cream Co for suggesting the Hiring Fair and for wanting to connect local employers with our students," said Carla Day, Career Facilitator at DSS, who was instrumental in organizing the Hiring Fair.
If you are a local employer that would like to participate in next year's Hiring Fairs, please contact the Career and Post Secondary Advisors, Pam Cheng at South Delta Secondary and Kim Jew at Delta Secondary.
