A WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT BOARD
SOUTH BAY WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD
A WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT BOARD
SOUTH BAY WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD
Over 1,400 Students and 100+ Employers Participate in the 25th Annual Job Fair Presented by the South Bay Workforce Investment Board at El Camino College
On Wednesday, April 30th, over 1,400 high school and college-age students gathered at El Camino College (ECC) for the 25th Annual Blueprint for Workplace Success Youth & Young Adult Job Fair, presented by the South Bay Workforce Investment Board (SBWIB) in partnership with ECC. The event saw participation from students representing more than 20 local high schools in the South Bay region, as well as several hundred students from El Camino College. In total, over 100 businesses were registered, offering a wide range of employment opportunities to local youth.
1,400
high school and college-age students gathered at El Camino College
The job fair provided students with the chance to connect directly with employers, resulting in more than 150 students being offered employment on the spot and over 3,000 job leads provided to attendees. Many of these students were also scheduled for second interviews, significantly increasing their chances of securing meaningful, long-term employment.
SBWIB Executive Director Jan Vogel addressed the attendees, stressing the importance of making a strong first impression. “Look the interviewer in the eye, shake their hand, and take this opportunity to learn about the career pathways that could lead to future employment,” Vogel said.
"Take this opportunity to learn about the career pathways that could lead to future employment."
- SBWIB Executive Director Jan Vogel
150
Students being offered employment on the spot
3,000
Job leads provided to attendees
Dr. Brenda Thames, President of El Camino College, also welcomed participants, emphasizing the value of the event for young job seekers. “This job fair process continues to be successful in enabling young job seekers to gain first-time employment,” Thames said. This year marked the third consecutive year that SBWIB brought the event to the ECC campus.
Torrance City Councilmember Sharon Kalani reminded students that while landing a job is a goal, the journey itself is just as important. "Today, you’ve already taken the first step by attending this job fair," Kalani remarked. "The skills you’re developing and the connections you’re making will serve you well as you move forward in your career."
Beyond meeting employers, students participated in interactive workshops led by major organizations like Disneyland and the FBI. These workshops allowed participants to explore career paths and learn firsthand about the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in these exciting industries.
The Youth Job Fair not only provides immediate employment opportunities but also serves as an important resource for students looking to build long-term career pathways. Many of the employers attending the event were seeking entry-level employees, offering young people a chance to develop essential skills and gain valuable work experience. For many teens, this job fair represents their first real-world job experience, a crucial steppingstone to future success.
This annual event is a cornerstone of SBWIB's commitment to helping young people in the South Bay region develop the skills and experience necessary for career success. By facilitating connections between students and employers, the Job Fair offers a valuable opportunity for youth to learn about different industries, explore career options, and secure their first job – all in one day.
South Bay Workforce Investment Board
11539 Hawthorne Blvd., 5th Floor Hawthorne, CA 90250
Phone: (310) 970-7700
Email: info@sbwib.org
© 2025 by South Bay Workforce Investment Board. All rights reserved.
This WIOA Title 1 financially assisted program or activity is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities
by calling in advance to CRS 1-800-735-2922 or 310-680-3700. To learn more about Equal Opportunity click here.
Stevens Amendment Disclosure: SBWIB has programs funded via federal funds. For funding disclosure information, please click here.