What's Happening?
WorkForce West Virginia has announced a statewide virtual job fair set for January 7, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. This event is part of a series of virtual job fairs aimed at connecting job seekers with employers
across the state. The platform allows participants to engage in chats, video chats, and interviews with various organizations. Scott Adkins, Acting Commissioner of WorkForce West Virginia, emphasized the opportunity for both employers and job seekers to connect and grow. Since the inception of these virtual fairs three years ago, they have attracted 32,668 job seekers and 4,743 employers, featuring 17,999 job openings. The December 2025 fair alone included 98 employers with 716 job openings for 844 registered job seekers. Participants must register in advance, and job seekers are advised to dress professionally and ensure a suitable background for video interviews. The virtual job fair portal offers a Job Seeker Training video and a list of participating employers.
Why It's Important?
The virtual job fair represents a significant opportunity for job seekers in West Virginia to connect with potential employers without geographical constraints. This initiative is crucial in a state where economic opportunities can be limited, providing a platform for individuals to access a broader range of job openings. For employers, it offers a streamlined process to meet and evaluate potential candidates efficiently. The success of previous fairs, with thousands of participants and job openings, highlights the demand and effectiveness of such virtual events. This approach not only aids in reducing unemployment but also supports economic growth by facilitating workforce development and matching talent with industry needs.
What's Next?
As the January 7 event approaches, both job seekers and employers are expected to prepare for the virtual interactions. Job seekers will need to register and utilize the resources provided, such as the Job Seeker Training video, to maximize their chances of success. Employers will set up their 'Virtual Booths' to attract potential candidates. The outcome of this job fair could influence future employment trends in West Virginia, potentially leading to more frequent and larger-scale virtual job fairs if successful. Stakeholders, including government agencies and local businesses, will likely monitor the event's impact on employment rates and economic activity in the region.
