Detroit auto show to include mobility job fair

When the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) returns to Cobo Center later this month, it will include more opportunities than simply shopping for a new ride. As the industry evolves into a higher-tech mobility-oriented field, a new pool of talent with different knowledge and skills will be required. In response, this year’s auto show will also include an industry-oriented job fair.

The Future Automotive Career Exposition (FACE) will run from 10am-7pm on Thursday, Jan. 17. at Cobo Center. The event is the result of a partnership between Michigan’s Talent and Economic Development Department (TED), the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and auto show organizers.

Job-seekers looking for a career within the intertwined automotive and mobility industry, are invited to submit a resume at the 2019 North American International Auto Show. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with career experts and learn more about opportunities within the growing field.

“The FACE event is an open invitation to high school students seeking apprenticeships, college students starting their job search or adults looking to transition into new career paths,” Stephanie Beckhorn, TED acting director, said in a news release.

“This is a terrific – and free – opportunity to meet with potential employers and also learn from some of the best experts Michigan has to offer on developing or refining resumes and improving interview skills.”

The first 225 registrants who RSVP online will have access to the following advantages:

• Opportunities to talk with human resource representatives from automotive companies and suppliers.
• Tune into a panel of young professionals in the automotive-sector who will share stories on how they began their careers and why they chose Michigan.
• Engage in mock interviews with Mike Magolan, an Oakland County Michigan Works! training specialist, and other talent development specialists, and receive feedback on resumes.
• Tune into the “The Do’s and Don’ts of Using Social Media in Your Job Search” forum featuring Chad Wiebesick, Washtenaw County Convention and Visitors Bureau vice president of integrated marketing and communications, and Andrew Belanger, govstatewide social media and digital content administrator.
• Grand Circus founder and CEO Damien Rocchi will speak about the company’s boot camp and how it can help automotive professionals begin a career in mobility.
• Free professional photos for social media profiles will be available to those who join one of the stage panels or presentations during the expo.