Over 70 businesses and post-secondary education institutions attended the event, which is one of the biggest — if not the biggest — college and career fairs in the county.

“This is an incredibly important day for our students,” said CCCTC Public Relations Co-Coordinator Elizabeth Wright. “Due to the fact we are a career and technical education facility, our students are incredibly engaged and making connections for their upcoming graduation.”

The all-day fair gave CCCTC students the opportunity to meet with prospective employees and learn more about potential career paths after graduation. The event also gave students a chance to explore different fields and learn more about professions they hadn’t considered before. It gave students a chance to experience early steps of the hiring process.

“Seniors and juniors will go through mock interviews with companies,” Wright said. “Some of those interviews become actual interviews and result in employment for the student.”

Hickey Metal Fabrication located at 873 Georgetown Road in Salem was among the businesses that participated in the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center’s Career Fair on Thursday. (Photo by Stephanie Elverd)

Local businesses, law enforcement, park professionals and branches of the U.S. military were among those who participated in the fair. Students and businesses exchanged input and feedback.

“Businesses often tell us that our career fair is their favorite one to attend because our students all interact with them and show great interest which makes it worth their time to attend,” Wright added.

All Staff Careers in Beloit took advantage of the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center’s Career fair on Thursday to reach out to students and future employees. (Photo by Stephanie Elverd)

Ironworkers local 207 was among labor unions that took part in the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center’s Career Fair on Thursday to discuss a career in iron work with students. (Photo by Stephanie Elverd)

Plumbers and Pipefitters of UA Local 396 in Mahoning County took part in the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center’s Career Fair on Thursday. Over 71 businesses, post-secondary education institutions and unions came together to share future opportunities with students. (Photo by Stephanie Elverd)