On Monday, March 9, 2026, Mid-America Technology Center welcomed more than 70 industry partners to campus for our 2026 Career Fair, creating meaningful opportunities for students to connect with employers and explore future career pathways. This event extended beyond traditional job interviews — students engaged in conversations about internships, job shadowing, apprenticeships, and expanded work-based learning opportunities that support long-term career success.
Throughout the event, students demonstrated professionalism and preparation, arriving dressed for success and confidently engaging with representatives from businesses and organizations across the region. In preparation for the event, Student Services Coordinator Sara Beth Simonton worked closely with students to ensure they understood professional dress expectations. MATC’s student store also provided access to interview attire, helping remove barriers and ensuring every student had the opportunity to present themselves with confidence. Instructors were seen coaching students beforehand and providing clear direction to foster meaningful conversations with industry professionals.
Students arrived with résumés in hand, reflecting the intentional preparation led by Advantage Center instructors Paul McKay and Brooke LeMay. The Advantage Center works directly with students on résumé development, job applications, and interview preparation, and additional sessions were hosted in advance of the Career Fair to help students refine their materials and presentation skills. The preparation paid off, as several students reported immediate opportunities. One student shared enthusiastically, “I’ve got interviews lined up!”
The welcoming atmosphere was felt by all attendees. MATC’s Student Services team ensured every guest felt appreciated and supported throughout the day. Student Campus Liaisons played a vital role by assisting with tours, serving lunch provided by MATC, and supporting event logistics while demonstrating exceptional professionalism.
During the midday lunch program, industry partners received updates on the direction and partnerships of Mid-America Technology Center. Superintendent Mike Eubank welcomed guests and delivered a brief “State of the School.” Student Services Coordinator Sara Beth Simonton highlighted the essential role of advisory boards in aligning programs with workforce needs. Michael Gustafson, Director of Student Services, discussed the continued expansion of work-based learning opportunities, while Wade Jarlsberg, Director of Professional Resource Outreach, outlined how PRO services support business and industry. Assistant Superintendent Dallas Krout also shared information regarding apprenticeship initiatives and workforce development partnerships.
Industry partners expressed strong support for both the event and the talent emerging from Mid-America Technology Center. Derrick Bishop, Shop Foreman at Davis Machine Shop, shared that his best hire came from MATC and expressed hope to add another graduate to his team. Jonathan Cook, General Manager at Cudd Pressure Control, voiced excitement about expanding partnerships with the campus through internships, apprenticeships, and additional work-based learning opportunities.
The MATC Career Fair continues to strengthen the connection between education and workforce development, ensuring students graduate not only with technical skills, but with direct industry connections that lead to career success.