How to Find Job Fairs Using State and Local Resources
Job fairs can be powerful stepping stones toward employment. They can offer direct access to hiring managers, on the spot interviews, and real time insights into local labor markets. But many job seekers don’t realize just how many free state and local resources exist to help them find these events — and how much support is available to help them prepare.
Whether you are exploring new career paths or re entering the workforce, here’s how to tap into community resources like American Job Centers, public libraries, and state and local government agencies.
State-wide Resources: Opportunities Across Your Region
Statewide resources will put you in touch with job fairs happening across your entire state. State workforce agencies, which provide training, employment, career, and business services to a variety of individuals, including Social Security disability beneficiaries, usually have websites that list upcoming in-person and virtual job fairs or hiring events. Because these sites are updated frequently, they are typically a reliable place to start. Find your state’s workforce agency at U.S. Deptartment of Labor - State Workforce Agencies.
State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies are a statewide resource that can help you become job ready and support your job search. VR counselors often know about job fairs and participating employers that welcome people with disabilities. They can also help you understand what to expect and how to prepare.
Local Resources: Support Close to Home
Local resources help you find job fairs happening right in your community. Public libraries are one of the best places to check. Many libraries keep calendars of local events, including job fairs and employer visits. They also offer free computer use, internet access, and quiet spaces where you can work on your resume or fill out applications.
City and county government websites often list community job fairs as well. These events are usually close by and easy to get to. Some are designed for specific groups, like young adults, older workers, or people looking for seasonal jobs.
Local nonprofits and community groups also host job fairs. These events are often smaller and more relaxed, which can make it easier to talk with employers.
Community colleges are another strong local resource. Many community colleges host job fairs for their students and the public. They often invite local employers, offer career workshops, and provide resume help through their career centers. Even if you’re not a student, many colleges allow community members to attend their events or use certain job-search services.
American Job Centers (AJC) are a national network of nearly 2,400 locations funded by the U.S. Department of Labor that provide free, comprehensive career training and employment services to job seekers and employers.
They offer in-person or online services including resume assistance, job search workshops, career counseling, and hiring events. These services often include specialized support for veterans, youth, and laid off workers. To find an AJC near you, visit the CareerOneStop’s American Job Centers Finder tool.
Many AJCs host their own job fairs or partner with local employers to bring hiring events to the community.
How Ticket to Work Service Providers Can Help
If you receive SSDI and/or SSI, are age 18 through 64, and want to work, the Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can provide you with free employment support. Service providers — such as Employment Networks (EN) and State VR agencies — can help you identify and use both statewide and local resources in a way that fits your goals.
Not sure which type of service provider is the right fit for you? Meet your Employment Team to learn about the types of providers available. Or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET; email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov or visit choosework.ssa.gov.
A Ticket Program service provider can help you find job fairs that match your interests. prepare your resume, and practice interview questions. They can also explain how working may affect your benefits and help you understand Social Security’s Work Incentives.
After a job fair, your service provider can help you follow up with employers, review job offers, and plan your next steps. Their goal is to support you throughout your job search.
What You Can Do Next
To make the most of these resources, here are a few places to get started:
- Check your state and local resources for upcoming job fairs. Look at your state workforce website. Visit your state government website at USA.gov/state-governments, local library, community college, or city and county pages to see what events are coming up.
- Learn more about how the Ticket to Work Program and Ticket Program service providers can help you. Register for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Each month covers different topics — from Work Incentives that support your earning potential to tips on how to prepare for the modern workplace.
- Connect with a Ticket to Work service provider for support. If you receive SSDI and/or SSI, a provider can help you prepare for job fairs, understand Work Incentives, and plan your job search. If you want to find a service provider, visit our Find Help Tool and search by location served or type of services offered.
- Make a list of job fairs you want to attend and start preparing. Choose events that fit your goals. Update your resume and practice talking about your skills until you feel confident in your abilities.
