Hundreds of jobseekers attend ‘Your Career Goals, Our Mission!’ job fair

Long lines formed outside the Pedro P Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe last Friday, as hundreds flocked to the Department of Labor’s “Your Career Goals, Our Mission!” job fair in search of new opportunities.

Six job preparedness entities and 17 employers joined DOL’s latest job fair and Employment Services director Eugene Tebuteb said he was happy with the response from jobseekers and especially employers who wanted to participate that morning.

“During our last job fair, which was last year, we had about 700 jobseekers. We are hoping to get close to that number or a match it, because despite what we are hearing on the news concerning our economy, we know that employers are still looking for workers. So that’s why we wanted to provide the platform for them to obtain the necessary workers.”

He added that last Friday’s job fair will be the first of two job fairs that the Department of Labor will be holding this year with second one set for around November or December 2024.

When asked what does the large turnout that morning tell him about unemployment in the CNMI, he responded, “So if I was someone who just flew into Saipan and knew nothing about Saipan, or the CNMI, I would see that there are a lot of potential workers out here. We just got to open up the platform for them to gain access to those employers and employment.” he said

Saipan Tribune was also able to speak to several jobseekers that morning, and they expressed their gratitude to DOL for the job fair, and making the platform very accessible.

“The line was pretty long outside but just coming in and seeing how many employers came out, I think it’s a really great opportunity. For those who are unemployed or looking for better jobs, this is really good. All for employers, companies, and jobseekers. Employers get to see you in person, and you get to learn more about the opportunities available,” said Kagman resident Vinalynn Oronigo.

Another participant, Luis Claridades, also shared his gratitude, adding that for him it was an “amazing experience, just great vibes all around.” He’s encouraging other young community members looking for jobs to check it out at the next job fair. “They should always come out and explore the options.”

“Be open for job opportunities because there’s always positions open in every level for anybody,” Oronigo agreed

Tebuteb encouraged community members seeking employment that there are so many available opportunities.

“If you’re looking for work, now is a great opportunity to do it,” he said. “Of course you have every opportunity even after the job fair. We, the Employment Services Division of the Department of Labor, are located on Capitol Hill and we also have the Workforce Investment Agency just a few buildings next to our office. So, if you’re looking for work and you need help that’s what we’re here to do, come on down.”

In line with the theme, “Your Career Goals, Our Mission!” DOL’s latest job fair is a call to foster economic growth and prosperity in the CNMI. This event aimed to bridge the gap between jobseekers and employers, providing a platform for networking, interviews, and potential employment.