Trigg’s Juniors, Seniors Embrace Second Annual Job Fair

More than 150 Wildcat juniors and seniors made their downhill trek to The Way Thursday morning — taking their first official steps into the job world as participants of the Second Annual Trigg County Job Fair.

Waiting for them — officials from more than 20 businesses, thrilled to have young, vibrant blood looking for everything from seasonal work to life-long career options.

Kelsee Lee, and 18-year-old at TCHS, knows graduation quickly approaches. She wants to spend two years studying psychology at Hopkinsville Community College before transferring to Murray State University, and as such, she knows she needs a job befitting of her upcoming school load.

Unable to attend last year’s inaugural event, she said this year was a “very interesting experience,” because she knows she needs a job to help pave a path, and one of which she’s worked really hard to create.

Among the jobs available: FiveStar, which opens its new station along US 68/80 May 16.

Incoming General Manager Amber Beckner, of Marshall County, said she still needs around “20 more employees” 18 and older before the first day, hoping to fill tasks in the deli, the beer cooler and at the counters.

At 8:45 AM Thursday, one TCHS student who was first in the door came in appropriately dressed for a job interview and her sharp resume in tow. Just 18 years old, she was fully prepared to discuss the assistant manager position currently available.

Beckner said hiring high school kids usually worked well — especially for a place like FiveStar, which is open 24 hours, and after 7 PM pays a night-time shift differential from $12.12 starting an hour to $14.12 an hour.

Kenny “Skillet” Underhill, a top official with Ingram Barge, said recent job fairs have been extremely successful for their company — which helps buoy dry and liquid goods shipping and industry through more than 4,500 miles of inland waterways.

While many jobs do involve being on the boats — like cooks and captains — Underhill noted there are a wide range of shoreside jobs available, and that they’ve already hired high school graduates this season.

Beth Sumner, job fair coordinator for the Trigg County Chamber of Commerce, said while this job fair certainly targets the general public, its kickoff with youngsters really sets the tone. She said some students aren’t interested in going to college, or are simply seeking part-time education.

They also want to stay near Trigg County and family ties, and local businesses are yearning for their skills.

Sumner added there are several local businesses and industries seeking younger talent, especially those who may be able to work unique and flexible shifts.

James Mangels, director of personnel and student services for Trigg County Schools, had a unique pitch for one particular job within the district.

Meanwhile, conversation broke out between Lee and Lake Barkley State Resort Park Manager Ashley Stevenson, who stated they have plenty of jobs available in the kitchens of the Lodge.