North Arkansas College will host their annual Career Fair this week

Brittany Harris and Emily Akins representing the event recently visited KHOZ's "Around the Table" program to talk about this year's event, which will include over 40 employers from the Harrison area as well as across the region including employers from Branson and Springfield. 

While the Career Fair is geared towards college students, the public is invited to attend and talk with employers. Harris and Akins mentioned during the interview that employees about to be displaced due to the closure of PACE Industries could attend to check out other job options as well as possible career paths. They also added the school will have resources on hand to help those that may need additional classes for new careers as well.

The Arkansas Division of Workforce Services Mobile Unit will be on hand  for the first time to help potential workers look at resume writing and interview assistance as well as registering for potential jobs. Aiding employees that have been recently displaced is one of the services they provide according to Harris and Akins. 

The complete interview can be found on the Around the Table Facebook Page.  

Additional information is also available from the below press release posted by the City of Harrison:

As the local community prepares for the closure of the local PACE Industries plant, impacting 178 employees, North Arkansas College is hosting its 2026 Career Fair at a time organizers say could not be more important.

“Early in my career, I was a dislocated worker. I understand the uncertainty and concern that came with that time. Education changed the direction of my life, and it can do the same for others,” said President Rick Massengale. “As our neighbors at PACE Industries face uncertainty, we want them to know they are not alone. The Career Fair is more than a hiring event – its’ an opportunity for new beginnings. Northark stands ready to help people find employment or gain the training they need to move confidently into the next chapter.”

The Career Fair is set for Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to – Noon at Pioneer Pavilion on the College’s South Campus. The event is free and open to the public.

With dozens of local and regional employers gathered in one location, the fair offers immediate job connections for those seeking employment. In addition, the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services Mobile Unit will be on site to assist individuals with filing for unemployment benefits and accessing workforce services. The mobile unit is an RV equipped with internet, computers, and printers. Staff will help individuals connect to various services to assist workers during a transition.

Dislocated PACE employees are especially encouraged to attend.

High school students exploring options after graduation, current college students preparing to complete their programs, and individuals considering a career change are all welcome.

Each year, the Career Fair hosts more than 60 employers representing industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, education, public safety, retail, construction, social services and more. Many employers conduct on-the-spot interviews. Attendees should dress professionally, bring a prepared résumé and be prepared to introduce themselves to potential employers.

For those considering a career change or retraining, representatives from Northark will be available to discuss short-term certificates, technical programs, and associate degrees designed to quickly prepare students for in-demand careers. The college offers 37 “Career in a Year” programs which can be accomplished in 12 months or less.

Employers are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Sign up for a booth at the fair here:  https://www.cognitoforms.com/.../NorthArkansasCollegeCare...

For more information, contact Rebecca Martin at rmartin@northark.edu or call (870) 391-3152.