NEW CASTLE, Del. — A veterans job fair hosted by U.S. Senator Chris Coons and Wilmington University on Saturday drew more than 200 job seekers who had the opportunity to meet with three-dozen employers at Wilmington University in New Castle. Recruiters from JP Morgan Chase were able to extend job offers on the spot to six local veterans, and other employers said they have plans to set up interviews with more.
“Operation Success certainly lived up to its name today. Any time we can connect veterans looking for jobs with companies looking to hire hard-working, dedicated Delawareans, we’ve been successful,” Senator Coons said. “The dozens of local employers at this fair recognized that veterans are a tremendous asset to the civilian workforce. Veterans are tested leaders who have learned how to manage people through some of the most difficult situations imaginable. I look forward to hearing from veterans whose meetings today turn into interviews and, hopefully, job offers.”
"It is so touching when a community comes together in support of our veterans and military service members,” said Jim Webb, Military Affairs Coordinator at Wilmington University. “I am very thankful to everyone who worked hard to make this operation a success. Mostly, I hope this event has made a difference in the lives of the men and women who served this country and have made such great sacrifices over the years. We are privileged to have been in their company today and look forward to serving them for years to come."
In August 2011, Senator Coons convened a panel of Delaware’s top experts on veterans to discuss ideas for boosting hiring. In May 2011, Senator Coons introduced the Hire America’s Heroes Act, which addressed many of the issues America’s veterans face as they re-enter the civilian workforce.
On Monday, April 23, 2012, the Congressional delegation will host a free job fair open to the public at Delaware State University from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, please call (302) 573-6345 or email workshop@coons.senate.gov.