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Over 350 local teenagers are expected to participate in the Job Fair.

Dow Diamond will be the new site of the fourth annual Midland Area Teen Job Fair, scheduled for Wednesday, March 26, from 5 to 9 p.m. Local youth, ages 16-19, have the chance to meet with representatives from over 30 employers from a variety of businesses and other organizations. The Armed Forces, construction, landscaping, volunteer centers and the service industry are among the areas that will be represented.

"Many of the employers are looking for summer help," says Dave Thomas, youth educator for Midland County's MSU Extension Office, who along with the Midland Area Chamber of Commerce are the lead sponsors of the event. "The Job Fair is a great way for teens to get an idea of the jobs available. For many of them, it's their first exposure to the workplace and helps them learn what skills are needed for today's job market."

The fact that Dow Diamond and the Great Lakes Loons are involved in the event this year brings an added level of excitement, Thomas added.

Over 350 local teenagers are expected to participate in the Job Fair, the brainchild of former 4-H'er Tabi Lesch. Participating employers, say organizers, also stand to benefit from the Job Fair. They get to meet qualified job candidates, who through their participation in the Fair have already completed valuable employment-related training in areas such as resume building, customer service, proper job attire and teambuilding. In addition, employers can save valuable time and expenses by hiring all their summer help in one evening, Thomas said.