The Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) held its annual job fair last Thursday, marking another successful year of connecting students with employers across the state. The event was well attended, drawing 165 participants and 56 employer organizations. Rachel James, Career Services Advisor and coordinator of the job fair, proudly noted that 13 of the businesses were represented by AVTEC graduates.
Representatives traveled from major Alaskan cities, including Anchorage, Fairbanks, Homer, Kenai, Juneau, and Soldotna to share resources and opportunities with AVTEC students. Local participation was strong, with seven Seward-based businesses attending, including JAG, Catalyst Marine, Public Employees Local 71, and Seward Community Health Center.
Vendor feedback
“Some of our best recruits come through AVTEC. We look forward to this event every year.”
Quotes gathered by Rachel James
“The number of interested people that show up at your job fair is always amazing! Very well organized, too!”
“I feel that you prepared the students well. I was more impressed with them than any other attendees at job fairs.”
“Thank you! This is easily my favorite job fair to attend!”
Career opportunities and outcomes
Many employers, such as Fort Knox Gold Mine, offer summer apprenticeships, providing students with hands-on job training, income, and valuable experience. These opportunities frequently lead to full-time employment – an important pathway given the huge challenge employers face in finding and retaining skilled workers, even with competitive entry-level compensation.
The success of AVTEC’s program is reflected in its graduates’ earnings: in 2024, new AVTEC graduates commanded an average starting wage of $30 per hour, with quick wage growth as they gain experience in their fields.
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