Opportunities the limit at Career Fair

There won't be any merry-go-rounds at the Western Nevada Community College Career Fair today, but there may be a way to get off one for those looking for a new opportunity.

"This is an opportunity to explore careers and learn about opportunities," Fair director Dianne Hilliard said Wednesday as organizers set up for the fair.

Hilliard, who is a counselor at the college, said that while there is the chance someone will find a job at the career fair that is not its basic function.

"There will be employers looking for workers here," she said. "But the focus is on exploring careers."

More than 1,100 people are expected to participate in the fair, which features 80 presenters for careers ranging from accounting to welding.

Hilliard said she expects 1,000 high school students from Carson, Douglas, Lyon and Storey counties.

But, she said, the fair is not just for students or the young.

"All community members and all ages are welcome to come," she said. "This is not just for students."

This is the fifth year for the college career fair.

"We're reaching out to our service area which stretches from Carson City and Douglas to Fallon, Yerington, Fernley and more, as well as nearby schools in California," said student counselor Sue Muller. "WNCC and high school students who want to investigate their future could hardly do better than attending our career fair. We are encouraging as many students as possible to attend to visit with a variety of employers."

Casinos and resorts, state agencies and a variety of local businesses are represented at the fair.

"People are leaving this field by the thousands annually, and we want to see more people in it," Lance Sims, owner of Triple S Tire and Brake in Carson City said. "We want to show that it's a viable career."

Judie Fisher of the Carson City Personnel Office said people come to Carson to work for the state and don't realize that the city is also looking for people.

"The career fair gives us exposure to those who are looking for jobs and what needs they want met," Fisher said. "And it's good to network with other employers to find out what they're doing."

If you go

What: Career Fair

Where: Reynolds Center, Western Nevada Community College

When: 9 a.m. - noon