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Small town, big opportunities

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zade Vadnais
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Tables covered in informational pamphlets and small freebies emblazoned with familiar logos fill a ballroom in a maze-like pattern. Behind each table, a friendly face greets those who approach, offering to answer any questions they may have about the organization they represent and the opportunities it can offer.

The 20th Force Support Squadron held their annual Job and Education Fair at the Carolina Skies Club and Conference Center here, Oct. 27.

“The goal of the event is to connect job and education seekers with different vendors to get information about education opportunities and the job market in the local area,” said Erica Brown, 20th FSS Airman and Family Readiness Center (AFRC) community readiness specialist. “We had a variety of different vendors at the fair this year; everything from Boeing plane manufacturing to the University of South Carolina Sumter.”

In all, representatives from 54 higher-learning institutions and businesses in Sumter County were present to answer questions Team Shaw members had about everything from tuition rates to hiring processes.

“It was cool to see the different options available locally,” said Morgan Rice, military spouse. “I’ve never been in this part of the country, but my husband was recently stationed here, so it’s nice to know I can pursue my education or get a nice job in town while he’s working on base.”

Brown said members of the military community have a unique skillset that employers and universities are generally eager to take advantage of, and hopes speaking to the vendors at the fair gave Team Shaw personnel some insight into the opportunities available outside the gate.

“Exposure is important,” said Brown. “Sometimes as members of the military community, we stay in the military bubble and don’t think to look for opportunities in the local community. It’s good for Team Shaw members to be exposed to the different employment and education opportunities in the area.”

Though the Job and Education Fair is held only once per year, resources such as the AFRC and the Education Center are available to Team Shaw members year-round. Contact the AFRC at (803) 895-1253 or the Education Center at (803) 895-1838 for more information.