Career showcase returns in May

HURON TWP. — The Greater Sandusky Partnership in collaboration with Huron County Growth Partnership is inviting employers across Erie and Huron counties to register for the 2026 Erie & Huron County Career Showcase, taking place from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, May 11 at the Sandusky-area Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. Event setup can begin as early as 7 a.m. that day. The career showcase is a dynamic, student-centered event designed to connect local businesses with high school juniors and seniors as they explore internships, summer employment and career pathways after graduation. It's presented by the business advisory councils of Erie and Huron counties, the OhioMeansJobs offices in Erie and Huron counties, Lorain County Community College and Manufacturing Works. Employers interested in participating are encouraged to register by April 24 by visiting tinyurl.com/26csregistration. Last year's career showcase brought together more than 70 employers and 1,200-plus students, making it one of the region's most impactful workforce development initiatives. Organizers are building on that momentum in 2026 with a continued focus on hands-on, interactive experiences that help students better understand local industries and career pathways. Participating employers will have the opportunity to: • Connect directly with high school juniors and seniors from Erie and Huron counties • Promote internships, summer jobs, job shadows and full-time opportunities • Showcase their industry through demonstrations, simulations or interactive activities • Conduct optional on-site interviews with students • Build early relationships with emerging talent The career showcase is coordinated through the business advisory councils, which are partnerships between local schools and employers that align education with workforce needs. These councils work to ensure students are exposed to real-world career opportunities while helping businesses build a pipeline of future talent. Lunch will be provided for participating employers and community partners. To maximize impact, employers are encouraged to create engaging, hands-on booth experiences and bring materials or giveaways that help students connect with their brand and opportunities. Businesses across Erie and Huron counties are encouraged to take part in this regional effort to support workforce development and inspire the next generation. Speaking up Many involved with the event talked about its impact and overall importance: • "This event is about creating meaningful connections between our business community and the next generation of talent," said Jarvis Cole-Caston, the Greater Sandusky Partnership's talent development and engagement manager. "When students can see, experience and engage with local career opportunities firsthand, it opens doors for the long-term strength of our regional workforce." • "This event facilitates students connecting with employers early. We're helping build a stronger workforce for our entire region," said Troy Parks, the Huron County Growth Partnership's economic development coordinator. • "Lorain County Community College is proud to sponsor the career showcase as a powerful example of how education and industry can come together to create meaningful pathways for students," said Janice Lapina, director of continuing education at Lorain County Community College. "By connecting students with real-world career experiences and local employers, we are helping to build a strong, sustainable talent pipeline that benefits both our communities and regional economy." People can email Alissa Fisher, the Greater Sandusky Partnership's director of marketing and creative services, by emailing afisher@greatersandusky.com.