(HARLINGEN) – With resumes in hand, Auto Collision Technology student Victoria Ramirez explored the aisles of employers at the Texas State Technical College Industry Job Fair searching for a certain employer.

“My heart is set on Service King,” said Ramirez. “There is a lot of growth opportunity with this company. I already spoke one-on-one with the recruiter and left my resume. They seemed interested, so I’m staying positive.”

The 27-year-old will graduate Summer 2017 with a Certificate II and she said the recruiter told her to call before she graduates to begin the interview process.

Ramirez already holds a certificate in Automotive Technology from TSTC and she said she hopes this makes her more marketable to employers such as Service King, a collision repair center serving 24 states with 318 locations.

The Talent Management and Career Services department at TSTC hosts this job fair every April to help the large number of students, like Ramirez, who are graduating either in the spring or the summer and looking for job placement.

TSTC Director of Talent Management and Career Services Viviana Espinoza said for many of the students in attendance this is their opportunity to network with recruiters and apply with companies that are already hiring or looking to hire TSTC graduates.

“Our goal is to help our students increase their confidence when it comes to speaking with employers,” said Espinoza. “Ultimately, the confidence gain will lead to job placement and a career.”

More than 40 employers were on hand accepting resumes and conducting on-site interviews.

Matt Granderson, Los Vientos site manager for Duke Energy, a leading energy company focused on electric power, gas distribution operations and renewable energy assets, said they already hire TSTC graduates and are always impressed with their skill and work ethic.

“The students coming out of TSTC graduate with the fundamental foundation and understanding in safety and technology,” said Granderson. “They graduate with the skills that make them marketable and ready to work.”

Granderson added that he had collected numerous resumes from prospects he hopes will work for Duke Energy.

Espinoza said overall this year’s job fair was a success with nothing but positive feedback from employers and students.

“Employer satisfaction was high. They were especially impressed with our students,” she said. “Many of the employers present will be returning for program tours and recruitment. This is great news for our students.”

For more information on student, alumni and industry services offered by TSTC’s Talent Management and Career Services, call 956-364-4940.