On February 26, the Atlantic County Institute of Technology (ACIT) hosted its largest career fair in school history by business participation, bringing together 54 leading businesses, trade unions, higher education partners, and community organizations to connect with hundreds of students in grades 9–12. The event created direct pathways to employment, mentorship, training programs, and long-term career success, while inspiring students to envision building their futures in South Jersey.
“The annual career fair showcases the very best of ACIT—real-world readiness, strong partnerships, and meaningful student opportunities in Atlantic County and beyond,” said Principal Joseph Potkay. “By bringing together local businesses and organizations, the event shows students these career opportunities exist right here in South Jersey, while giving them tools and insights from professionals outside the classroom—skills they can practice now or carry forward before graduation to succeed in their dream roles.”
Gina DeMaio, ACIT’s Cooperative Education and Work-Based Learning Coordinator, highlighted the range of opportunities students explored at the fair. “Beyond their career interests, students also accessed practical resources—TD Bank guided them in financial literacy and helped them open their first bank accounts, and organizations such as the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services shared information about services and support available to eligible students,” she said.
Senior fashion student Liah Hernandez connected with Emily Oluoch, an accomplished technical and fashion designer and representative of Project Prom, who recently joined the ACIT Advisory Board. The Advisory Board, composed of industry professionals, provides guidance to ensure ACIT programs remain aligned with workforce trends and industry standards.
“Meeting Emily at the career fair is an incredible opportunity for me,” Hernandez said. “She offered to mentor me and provide professional feedback on my collection. Her guidance can help me grow as a designer and feel more prepared to pursue a future in fashion.”
Industry leaders also shared their enthusiasm for the event.
“We were thoroughly impressed with ACIT’s programs and are excited about the opportunity to continue building a partnership with the school and its students,” said Matthew Campanile, Substation Supervisor at Atlantic City Electric.
“I have participated in many career events throughout my career, and I can confidently say the ACIT students stood out,” said Wallace Maines, Director of Paramedic Science & EMT Training at the Health Professions Institute at Atlantic Cape Community College. “They were polite, professional, and truly engaged. It was a pleasure connecting with them.”
The skilled trades also played a major role in the fair. United Association Local 322 connected with students interested in plumbing, pipefitting, welding, and HVAC careers through its five-year paid apprenticeship program, which partners with more than 100 regional companies.
“Our program gives students the training, support, and real-world experience they need to build successful careers,” said Nick Bidinger, a training coordinator at U.A. Local 322. “We’re proud to partner with ACIT and are especially excited to welcome the first class of Welding students as they launch their careers alongside the debut of ACIT’s Welding program.”
By uniting education, industry, and community, ACIT’s record-setting career fair strengthened the workforce pipeline across Atlantic County and reinforced the school’s commitment to developing skilled, confident, and career-ready graduates prepared to live, work, and thrive in South Jersey.
