Amy Clickner, CEO, Lake Superior Community Partnership

Are you thinking about switching career paths? Maybe you know a student who is unsure what career path to take? Fall is the season to explore! Marquette County is offering a number of career fairs, career days, open houses and events alike.

The Construction Management and Technology Career Fair just had its 15th annual event. It took place last week at the NMU Jacobetti Complex – Commons Area from 1 to 4 p.m. The fair provided an opportunity for students and employers to discuss employment possibilities in a variety of service and technical areas. Keep an eye out for this awesome opportunity next year.

The 2019 U.P. Professional Trades Career Day is fast approaching. On Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Marquette County Fairgrounds, high school students will have the chance to operate bulldozers, cranes, excavators and much more! The event is also open to the public from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. Attendees will get the opportunity to connect with employment specialists to assist your talent needs.

If you are interested in exploring other industries, stop by Industry After Hours in K.I. Sawyer from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 9. Local businesses, MJ VanDamme, 906 Electricians- IBEW, Local Sheet Metal Workers – Smart No. 7, Global Response and Bahrman’s Trucking will have tours available to present opportunities within their fields. Individuals age 16 and above are welcome to attend and will even get the chance to participate in a few hands-on activities.

For those interested in the Electrical Line Technician Program, the annual open house will be held from 1-3 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Midwest Skills Development Center in Gwinn. The Electrical Line Technician Program prepares students to install, maintain and operate electrical systems to supply electric energy to residential, commercial and industrial customers. Attendees will have the chance to participate in many fun activities, including a chance to climb an electrical pole!

The Fall Semester Job Fair will take place from 1- 4 p.m. Oct. 16 at NMU’s Northern Center (previously known as the University Center). This is an opportunity for employers to share information with NMU students (not necessarily just soon-to-be graduates) about a wide range of career possibilities. Employers are also welcome to recruit for full-time or part-time positions, internships and summer staff. There is no cost for students or alumni to attend the Fall Semester Job Fair. Attendees are reminded to dress for success and bring your resume!

Another great resource for career exploration is the Career Technical Education magazine, which highlights apprenticeships, internships and career paths for students to search through and figure out what best suits them. Feel free to pick up your copy of the CTE Magazine at the Lake Superior Community Partnership office and take a look at the CTE Facebook page as well.

The LSCP also houses an abundance of resources on our website, Marquette.org, under Jobs and Talent. While employers in all sectors are struggling to find talent, we hear the need for those in the skilled trades the most often. The events listed are great opportunities for individuals to learn about various programs and careers paths. As we always say, Marquette County is a wonderful place it is to live, play AND work.

Editor’s NOTE: Amy Clickner is CEO of the Lake Superior Community Partnership. Her twice-monthly column will address topics of interest to the local business community.