The prospects of career and education opportunities prompted dozens of active-duty service members and civilians to attend the 4^th annual Career & Education Fair held at Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany’s Conference Center, Building 7120, Sep. 14.

Representatives from roughly 35 “military friendly” organizations and educational institutions around the region traveled near and far in efforts to promote their agencies and to recruit qualified candidates.

Robin Gray, program manager, Transition Readiness Program, Marine Corps Community Services, MCLB Albany, gave an overview of the event and the new breakout sessions, which have been added to the day’s activities.

“The primary purpose of the career and education fair is to help veterans and military personnel obtain employment and educational information and resources,” Gray said. “This is an effort to connect the skilled veterans with employers having open positions.

“This is our fourth year having the event,” she explained. “This year, we’ve added personal and professional breakout sessions to the program. Colonel William Saunders, U.S. Air Force retired, is a professional career coach and author of the book, ‘Stuck in Traffic.’ We also have (representatives from) the Georgia Financial Aid Commission and the Veterans Administration.

“We thought (the breakout sessions) would provide additional resources,” she continued. “Especially resources within the Veterans Administration; there are also a lot of people who have not made that connection as far as the employment career coaching. The financial aid representatives, of course, will partner with the education institutions.”

Juan M. Escovar, safety specialist, Risk Management, MCLB Albany, commented on his experience as a participant at the career fair.

“In my opinion, (it) was a vast success due to the convenient location, central to employees, residents and visitors alike,” Escovar said. “The facility was adequately arranged to meet the 'theme' of the fair.”

The hours and day of the week allowed for greater participation, according to Escovar. For him, the diversity of sources and representatives where interested individuals could learn more about careers and educational possibilities was also beneficial.

Gray said, the event was open to military service members and their families, as well current employees aboard MCLB Albany.

She urged eligible persons to participate in future career fairs and take advantage of opportunities to meet with representatives from a variety of companies and schools, who provide information about general career opportunities as well as specific details on current openings and school requirements.

For assistance with resume writing, employment skills or and other transitional support, call at 229-639-9122.