2009-10-12T16:32:38Z 38 2009-10-11 Charlotte Observer

By Karen Sullivan Recruiters from employers and education programs to be in Charlotte Thursday. The free RecruitMilitary Opportunity Expo brings together recruiters offering jobs, training and education programs and franchises. When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Thursday. Where: Bojangles' Coliseum, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. Details: www.recruitmilitary.com. An event for veterans, those in the military and their spouses is returning to Charlotte on Thursday, with a twist this year. In fact, RecruitMilitary's free event won't be called a career fair this time. Planners are calling it an "Opportunity Expo" because those who visit won't just see employers. They also can get information on becoming an entrepreneur, such as through a franchise. Veterans and those in the military also can learn about college and other education programs available through the enhanced G.I. bill, which took effect Aug. 1. "They can come to one place and see companies looking specifically for veterans," said Robert Walker, RecruitMilitary's director of events and national accounts. RecruitMilitary, a for-profit company that has brought career events to Charlotte since 2006, brings recruiters to more than 50 cities each year. The event is produced in cooperation with the federal HireVets First initiative, the American Legion and the Military Spouse Corporate Career Network. Between 300 and 500 people are expected at the Charlotte event, which has moved to Bojangles' Coliseum because of activities scheduled at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Most who attend the expos are job seekers. About 30 local, regional and national organizations are expected to have representatives at the event - some with job vacancies to fill and others lining up talent for opportunities in the future, Walker said. Job seekers should bring a resume if possible and come prepared to tell recruiters about the skills they can offer. Recruiters want candidates who are disciplined and trainable, and who can demonstrate leadership. They can make initial assessments at the expo. "It gets people to what is usually the last step in the hiring process, which is the face-to-face meeting," Walker said. Recruiters from approved education programs can offer veterans the chance to enter degree or training programs with enhancements of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. The new GI bill grants up to 36 months of education aid, including tuition and other benefits. "Whether you're looking for a new job or to become more marketable by getting more education - or if you're looking to become your own boss - you can do that here," Walker said.

2009-10-12T16:34:05Z