Trainings & Events

Job Quest

JobQuest Expo

About The Event

Looking for a job, a career change, or a new opportunity? Join us at the 2026 JobQuest Expo. Van Wert Works and OhioMeansJobs of Van Wert County are hosting this free community job fair featuring 40+ employers from across the region representing industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, agriculture, logistics, construction, public service, and more.

What to expect:
• Meet local employers who are actively hiring
• Explore career paths across multiple industries
• Apply for jobs at the on-site computer lab
• Connect with community workforce resources
• Learn about education and training opportunities
Several employers will also be conducting on-site interviews during the event. If you’d like to schedule an interview in advance, sign up here: https://jobquestexpo.simplybook.me/v2/#book
To help you prepare for the event, we’ve created a JobQuest Expo Guide to Success that includes:
• A directory of participating employers
• Resume tips
• Interview etiquette and conversation starters
• Workforce and community resources
View the guide here: https://anyflip.com/uzkhc/mxzl/
Need help preparing for JobQuest? If you need professional clothing, transportation, or resume/interview preparation, please reach out ahead of time at workforce@vanwerted.com.
We hope you’ll join us and discover the opportunities available right here in our region!

 

Education on Location

Education on Location

  • June 1-5, 2026
  • 8 AM - 4 PM
  • Northwest State Community College - Van Wert Campus
“Education on Location has helped me reflect on my teaching practices and provided me with an increased awareness of how I can connect my students with the local business community and help better prepare them for productive careers.”
– A recent participant
About The Event

Education on Local is an annual weeklong program facilitated by VWAEDC with the Business Advisory Council for local (preschool, elementary, middle school, and high school) educators to acquire continuing education. This Ashland University-sanctioned course offers continuing education units required by the Ohio Department of Education + optional credit hours toward a degree.

The week’s goal was to enlighten teachers with local career opportunities for their students. By touring numerous Van Wert County businesses, the attendees gain insight into the products + services of local companies. More importantly, they earn an understanding of the vast number of local jobs for engineers, medical professionals, skilled trades, logistics, and lab scientists. The desired outcome is that teachers use this information to enlighten + prepare students as they journey toward a successful career.

Educators learn about the “soft skills” employers desire. Dependability, Customer Service, Communication, and Critical Thinking are among the top traits employers say they need for the success and longevity of their employees.

Required from the attendees was a write-up of takeaways + how educators will apply the information in the classroom.