Mississippi State University Meridian and Meridian Community College will host their third annual College and Job Fair Thursday, Nov. 17 from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. in the MSU Meridian Kahlmus Auditorium. The fair is open to anyone interested in pursuing an education or seeking employment.

    The college and job fair will provide citizens in this region a chance to learn more about obtaining a degree, and will also provide job applicants the opportunity to interact with area businesses that have job vacancies.

    “MSU Meridian and Meridian Community College share a strong commitment to helping students develop enjoyable lives and productive careers,” said Dr. Steve Brown, dean and associate vice president of MSU Meridian. “Additionally, our institutions recognize and value our vital connection to communities and employers throughout the state and the region. Activities such as the College and Job Fair underscore once again our eagerness to serve the needs of our people, local employers and the surrounding areas.”

    “The goal of higher education in our community is not only to offer quality instruction, but also to advance the cause of our graduates remaining in the East Central Mississippi region, raising their families here, and becoming its leaders of tomorrow,” said Dr. Scott Elliott, president of Meridian Community College. “To accomplish that, education and industry must work hand-in-glove. So, this job fair is a means of not only acquainting students with the educational programming that’s available in our community, but also to showcase industries in which graduates can pursue rewarding careers.”

    During the College and Job Fair, MSU Meridian will have faculty and staff on hand from Admissions/Recruiting, Advising, Financial Aid, Veteran’s Services, as well as the Division of Arts and Sciences, Division of Business, Division of Education and MSU Riley Center.

    Meridian Community College will showcase Admissions, Advising, Financial Aid, Veterans’/Military Services Services, University Transfer, Division of Business, Division of Health Education, Division of Nursing, Community and Business Development, Industrial Technology Division and Emergency Services Division.

    Currently regional employers are looking to fill the following positions: sales associates, machinists, welders, maintenance technicians, management trainees, IT technicians and design engineers, account executives, correctional officers, mechanics and military intelligence, customer care representatives, clinical and non-clinical positions, phlebotomist, laboratory technicians and donor care, marketing, patient account representative and pharmacy technician, therapist and case managers, recreation aide, desk clerk, food service and custodial worker and bartender.

    Employers that plan to attend so far include: Avon, Citizens National Bank, GEO Group, Hol-Mac Corporation, Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, Naval Air Station Meridian (Morale, Welfare and Recreation), Mississippi Army National Guard, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services, N.E.W. Customer Service Companies, Rush Health Systems, United Blood Services, Vital Care, and Weems Mental Health Center.

    Those seeking employment should come dressed for success and bring sufficient copies of their resume.

    Booth space is available at no charge and businesses have until Friday, Nov. 4 to register. For additional information on the MSU Meridian and MCC College and Job Fair call (601) 484-0112.