The third annual Baldwin Connect College and Career Expo, a joint effort between the Baldwin County Chambers of Commerce and Baldwin County Public Schools, took place on March 20 at the Baldwin County Coliseum in Robertsdale.

Drawing hundreds of students, the event served as a platform for exploring local education and industry opportunities.

Geared towards 11th and 12th grade students as well as the general public, the expo aimed to bridge the gap between academic learning and workforce demands. Its mission is to assist students in making informed career decisions while facilitating connections between local businesses and potential talent.

Key figures in the event have commended the expo's emphasis on fostering meaningful engagement between businesses and students, providing a valuable platform for direct interaction with industry representatives, job application opportunities and guidance on educational pathways to pursue career goals.

Kendall Mowdy, Career Technical Education Coordinator for Baldwin County Public Schools, highlighted the significance of Baldwin Connect, stating it presents a notable opportunity for district students.
Gail Quezada, President of the Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, praised the addition of a resume scholarship contest to last year's event.

"Last year, adding a resume scholarship contest to the event proved to be a fantastic initiative to support high school students in their college pursuits, scholarships, internships and employment," Quezada said. "A well-crafted resume is a crucial marketing tool that effectively communicates your qualifications and personal brand to potential employers and recruiters, setting you apart from other candidates. In a competitive job market, having a standout resume is essential for capturing attention amidst a large pool of applicants."

Winners from each participating high school receive $250 and compete in a final round for a chance to win an additional $1,000 scholarship through an interview with local business leaders.

The contest not only rewards students for their resume-building skills but also provides valuable experience in professional self-presentation and competitiveness in the job market.