The Red Hawks at Atlantic County Institute of Technology (ACIT) are soaring to new heights, with the annual ACIT Job Fair serving as their runway to success. For students, it was a moment to connect with employers eager to help them fuel their passions and drive them toward future career opportunities.
“The fair was a great success, offering students the chance to explore and pursue what they love,” said Dr. Phil Guenther, Superintendent. “A special thank you to Gina DeMaio and the Work-Based Learning team for their hard work. We truly appreciate our community partnerships in making these opportunities possible.”
“The job fair gives students the chance to spread their wings, connect with real-world professionals, and take the first step into their future careers,” says Brian Hartley, Vice President of Playland Castaway Cove. “Every year, we see ACIT students arrive with clear direction and energy. We love watching them take that next step, pursuing what they are passionate about.”
Sophomore culinary student Craig Jorgenson embodies the drive and clarity that ACIT students bring to the table. He explained that the job fair gives students like him access to new resources and connections have. “It’s a chance to discover what’s out there and figure out what’s possible for my future,” Craig said. “I’ve always dreamed of opening my own charity pastry shop.”
This ambitious drive is what has made Hard Rock Hotel and Casino’s Sous Chef Terrance Harris such a strong supporter of the event. “The students that walk through our doors have an amazing work ethic. They are eager to learn and think on their feet, adapting quickly in our fast-paced kitchens, buffets, and banquets. Watching them hone their skills is inspiring.”
For many students, the job fair opens doors to new opportunities. Jacob Hackett, Social Media and Volunteer Coordinator for South Jersey Field of Dreams, shares, “It is rewarding to watch the students who work with us gain a clearer sense of direction. They may come with one idea, but by the end, they are excited about new possibilities. We help them explore options they had not thought about before.”
Senior Shia Jones has been reaping the benefits of the ACIT Job Fair throughout her four years as a Red Hawk. “I got two summer jobs from this Job Fair, and now I have a solid start to keep building my career!” Shia said with excitement. “It is neat to see my employers here again, inspiring others to take that step into their future careers, just as they inspired me.”
Several companies, including Shore Physicians Group, offer ACIT students exclusive opportunities that add wings to their journeys. “Our MA Program gives ACIT students the chance to gain hands-on experience, shadowing professionals in fields like endocrinology, orthopedics, and primary care,” said Gary Poetsch, HR Generalist at Shore Physicians Group. “We have seen students who thought they had a clear path discover new passions through shadowing. One student who originally aimed for surgery found her calling in a completely different field. The job fair and experiences like these help students figure out where they truly belong.”
As students take flight, they know they have support. “Our partnership with ACIT has been incredible,” said Chris Heacock, Assistant Chief at AtlantiCare EMS. “We have had students start as volunteers, learning EMS from the ground up, and by 18, many are ready to step onto the ambulances as professionals. It is rewarding to help them take their first big steps.”
For those looking to serve, the military provides another path to success. “The Navy offers amazing opportunities for career growth, from tuition assistance to apprenticeships,” said Petty Officer Madrid, US Navy Recruiter. “Job fairs like this give students the chance to explore paths they might not have known about. It’s about giving them the tools to succeed—whether in the military or beyond.”
ACIT students recognize how important this event is for their future. Senior Crystal Ramos shared, “I collected a handful of brochures and learned about how some summer jobs would fit into my schedule. I really liked hearing what the employers had to say about their careers and the opportunities available. It gave me a better idea of what is out there and helped me think about my next steps.”
Zachary Brown, HR Director at Chick-fil-A Fire Road, is another employer proud to help ACIT students take flight. “We love giving students the opportunity to begin their careers with us. At Chick-fil-A, we strive to be known as the most caring company in the world, and helping students build their futures is one way we can make an impact,” Brown said.
Through this event, ACIT continues to provide students with the tools, experiences, and mentorship they need to rise to new heights. With a clear vision and unwavering support, Red Hawks are charting their course toward future success, equipped to take flight with confidence.
About Atlantic County Institute of Technology
For over four decades, the Atlantic County Institute of Technology has been preparing students with the academic and technical skills needed to successfully enter the world of work or continue their education at the college level. ACIT is the most comprehensive technical education facility in Atlantic County, and it is the school of choice for a diverse student body, offering 19 career and technical education programs from which to choose. ACIT’s motto “Pursue What You Love,” encourages students to actively engage in their chosen academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, including various after-school clubs and athletic programs. In addition, 100’s of Atlantic County adult learners are enrolled in the Adult Education Program. Adult learners in the evening school participate in both full- and part-time technical programs.
For more information about ACIT, please visit www.acitech.org.
