Illinois Valley Community College is set to host two significant events aimed at connecting students and the community with opportunities in agriculture. The Open House on November 1, 2024, from 9 to 11 AM, will feature university representatives and tours of the new agriculture complex. Following closely, the Job and Internship Fair on November 7th at 9 AM will offer direct engagement with potential employers in agribusiness. Both events underscore the college’s commitment to fostering local talent and enhancing career paths in the agriculture sector.
“The open house is geared toward high school students considering what college they want to attend and to community members considering moving forward with an ag degree,” said Dr. Jennifer Timmers, co-coordinator of the program.
“Our students are generally looking to stay local and our program focuses on improving the local ag industry. Our fair gives employers the first chance to hire students out of our program and gives our students the first chance to get a job locally. It’s a win-win for local industries and students!”
He added, “Every year, our students say the fair opened their eyes to the demand and variety out there — jobs that provide benefits, good wages, insurance and retirement. These representatives are from companies you drive by regularly or whose signs you see and didn’t realize all they do.”
Timmers and Mott advise job fair visitors to come prepared with resumes and be ready to apply on the spot.
“Every student could have gotten a job last year, with some left over,” Mott said. Timmers noted several did secure internships.
Pre-registration to the open house is preferred. Visit ivcc.edu/agriculture and click on the Ag Open House RSVP button to pre-register.