TR’s continuing education department has put together a job fair that will cater especially to students with disabilities.
All students are invited to meet with more than 30 local employers at the event 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 24 in Action Suites A, B and C.
“I understand from an employer’s standpoint that a disability doesn’t have to be physical,” said Patricia Castillo, an event support staff member. “This fair will definitely be more considerate and sensitive to these students.”
Instructions written in braille or large print and given by sign language translators will assist blind and deaf students. Castillo said the continuing education department with the help of some instructors and administrators realized more services were needed to reach out to persons with disabilities.
Breakout sessions begin at 10:15 a.m. Kristin Vinson Wright, TR career and employment services director, will join other local guest speakers to give students advice on professional attire, résumé writing, networking and interviewing skills.
Some workshops that focus on benefits and disclosure have been designed especially for workers with disabilities.
“Research shows that persons with disabilities are 70 percent more likely to stay [at a job] longer than five years and are 50 percent less likely to be late or absent,” Castillo said.
The fair will benefit not only students but employers as well.
Employers attending the fair include American Airlines, Chili’s, Albertsons, Six Flags, Goodwill, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics and JPS Health Network.
Castillo helped Maria Luera, director of the event and TR continuing education coordinator of special projects, put together the job fair with the continuing education department. This marks the event’s second year.
— Kirsten Mahon
