Call to Showcase Businesses at MakerFest

Planning for the 2018 Tri-State MakerFest is underway and this year, all businesses are welcome to register for the 3-day event, celebrating employment industries. The event takes place Thursday-Saturday, November 1-3 inside and outside the Oakley Lindsay Center at 300 Civic Center Plaza, Quincy, IL 62301.

 

Thursday evening from 4PM-6PM includes a B2B networking, hosted bar and part 1 of the high school S.T.E.A.M. competition. Friday from 9AM-12PM is the student open house, and Saturday from 9AM-12PM is part 2 of the S.T.E.A.M. completion, along with activities for K-6thgrade and a job fair from employment seeking individuals.

 

Sponsored by HOMEBANK, the event enables us to showcase local businesses to area students and job seekers, giving guests an in-depth look at tri-state area businesses, while promoting available opportunities, and helping to build our regional workforce.

 

“We participated (last year) because it was a great opportunity to meet with high school students from across the area,” explained Jim Rubottom,VP Human Resources at Knapheide Manufacturing. “It allowed us to promote our company and discuss opportunities at Knapheide. To be able to explain not only a job is available, but a person can build a career and grow with our organization.”

 

“Students were able to ask questions outside of the classroom about opportunities and careers available not just with ADM but with many different local industries after they graduate,” said Brenton Wadsworth, Refinery Manager at Archer Daniels Midland Company. “I am looking forward to talking with the young adults and giving them some advice to help guide them in their career path after high school.”

 

Business can participate in various ways including:

  • Setting up tech demonstrations to showcase company innovations,
  • Having a display of equipment, robotics or video presentation,
  • Presenting something interactive,
  • Having an exhibit for students and job seekers to promote available opportunities, discuss skills needed and take applications.

 

Businesses can register online by filling out the Business Participation Format www.gredf.org under the Workforce Development tab. There, companies have a choice of booth size starting at $85, with option for both indoor and outdoor display. RSVP Deadline is Monday, October 1.

 

MakerFest is also in partnership with John Wood Community College, Workforce Innovation Board of Western IL, West Central Region Education for Employment System #240 / Quincy Area Vocational & Technical Center and the Quincy Herald-Whig.