Northumberland County hosts career fair to showcase local job opportunities for students

In a recent meeting of the Northumberland Board of Supervisors, significant discussions centered around community needs, particularly in education and caregiving. The meeting highlighted two key initiatives: a career fair for local students and the establishment of a childcare facility.

The Northumberland County School Director of Career and Technical Education announced the return of a career fair, the first since the COVID-19 pandemic. Scheduled for April 20, 2025, from 1 PM to 3 PM, the event aims to connect eighth through twelfth graders with local employers. With 25 businesses and public service providers already committed, the fair seeks to showcase career opportunities in the Northern Neck region. The director emphasized the importance of retaining local talent, as many students express intentions to leave the area due to limited job prospects. The school is actively seeking additional employers to reach a goal of 40 participants, highlighting the community's need for robust career pathways.

In a related discussion, community members voiced concerns about the lack of caregiving resources in Northumberland County. Vivian Nutt and Nancy Henderson from G. Mostelos Home Health Care Agency addressed the board, emphasizing the urgent need for a facility to train caregivers. They noted that many families are struggling to provide care for elderly relatives, often leaving jobs to do so. The agency is seeking support to secure a building for training purposes, which would help alleviate the burden on families and improve care quality.

The meeting also featured a proposal for a childcare facility by Dr. Carolyn Crockett, who highlighted the critical need for such services in the community. With her extensive background in education and special needs, Dr. Crockett aims to provide a nurturing environment for children while also supporting parents. She emphasized the importance of early childhood education in preventing future educational challenges and fostering a supportive community for families.

The board members expressed support for both initiatives, recognizing the importance of addressing the community's educational and caregiving needs. As Northumberland County continues to navigate post-pandemic recovery, these discussions reflect a commitment to enhancing local opportunities and resources for residents. The anticipated next steps include further outreach to local employers for the career fair and exploring options for the proposed childcare facility, which could significantly impact the community's future.