The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce/Hot Springs Metro Partnership, along with the Lake Hamilton School District and Dawson Education Cooperative, will host Draft Day 2024 - Hot Springs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at Wolf Arena.
Last year, Draft Day featured over 1,800 students, 17 schools, and 57 employers that gathered for the two-day in-person hiring and career fair.
Gary Troutman, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce and HSMP, said it is the largest hiring event of its kind in the state.
The two-day career exploration and hiring event "serves as a pivotal platform for workforce-bound seniors and juniors to explore career pathways and connect with potential employers while also providing businesses with a platform to connect with future talent," a news release said.
Troutman noted in the release that workforce is the single-most important issue that most local companies, businesses, hospitals, schools, and organizations are facing.
"With Draft Day 2024 - Hot Springs, we are offering our local companies a way to combat that stressful challenge," he said.
Lake Hamilton School District Career and Technical Education Facilitator Amanda Porter noted the event provides students with "tangible opportunities" for their future. Over 25 area schools have been invited to attend.
"Our mission is to equip every graduating senior with a concrete transition plan, whether it's entering the workforce or pursuing further education," she said in the release. "We aim to cultivate a strong partnership between our students and the thriving businesses in our community."
Businesses are encouraged to participate. There are no booth fees thanks to a grant HSMP received from the SHRM Foundation. Sponsorships are encouraged, though, to provide materials for attending students.
"Draft Day 2024 - Hot Springs is the perfect place for high school juniors to make connections for the future with our local companies and for seniors to bring a resume, make a great first impression, and place themselves in a position to be called back by the participating companies for consideration to be hired," Troutman said.
"Students can also find out if available positions might require a four-year degree from a university or a two-year (or less) certification from National Park College or another vocational education provider."
Participants are asked to register by today. They will then receive comprehensive event logistics and arrangements. Booth setup will be on Tuesday.
For more information, email Porter at [email protected] or Chamber Communications Manager Hannah Rohrer at 501-321-1700.
The release said the event encourages a "hands-on approach," and businesses may showcase their marketing materials, technology, machinery, and more within their designated 10-by-10-foot booth space.
Porter notes the event serves as a crucial pipeline for future talent in the community.
"By offering students direct exposure to career opportunities, we are not only shaping their futures but also fostering a robust workforce ecosystem in and around Hot Springs," she said.