Opening doors for the next generation

SPIRIT LAKE — The “Opportunity Knocks” job fair was hosted by the Rathdrum Chamber of Commerce at Timberlake High School on Wednesday.

About 300 students met with representatives from several industries including banking, construction, fiber internet services and auto care.

Sebastian Kelley, college and career adviser for Timberlake, said he likes to see networking events that involve students because it gives them insight into local companies and what jobs are available.

“We can get some workforce exposure to students,” Kelley said.  “Some students don’t want to go right into college so we can get them involved in the local workforce.”

One way local companies are bringing students into the workforce is by way of internship.

Water Solutions President Russ Ward said his company recently added an internship program to take a proactive approach to incorporate younger workers.

“We added this to gently introduce students to our workforce to show them what we do,” Ward said. “Interns will be half working and half learning with our company.”

“They also get to help with marketing and social media because most of the students are very savvy with those elements,” he added.

Another company offering internships is TDS Fiber, but their focus is to get the students learning in a hands-on environment.

Kris Faver, a network specialist, and said their internship is open to students 16 and older and runs through the summer months. He said it offers students a chance to experience the service side of fiber installation.  

"I think the TDS Fiber stuff is very interesting and provides good opportunities," said sophomore Wyatt Carey.  "But I actually want to go to trade school and become a lineman."

Briley Arnett also watched the TDS demonstration.  

"I really enjoy seeing what local opportunities we have in the area," Arnett said.  "But my long-term goals are to get into sports medicine."

Some students like juniors Sydney Lauer and Payton Ranney don’t have absolute career goals but said they feel the opportunity to meet local businesses is important to helping students potential pathways.

Some fun opportunities are also available for students and Silverwood Theme Park hires students as young as 14 for part-time work.

Laurel Vanderhoof, Silverwood cast member services coordinator, said the younger crowd is drawn to work at the theme park because of the fun nature.

“We always try to connect with the local students,” Vanderhoof said. “We can really connect with them because a lot of them want a job that offers fun experiences.”

The fair also brings points of clarity for some. Umpqua Bank offers opportunities for high school graduates.

“We do offer jobs to high school graduates,” said Rachel Hulce, assistant branch manager for the Rathdrum office. “Many are surprised we don’t require college degrees for many of our positions also.”

“We hope we can help them plant the seeds for their futures,” she added.

Rathdrum Chamber Executive Director Ashley Cameron said the event was successful.

“I am excited for the next generation to enter our workforce,” she said. 

    Payton Ranney, left, stands with Sydney Lauer after visiting all of the tables at the "Opportunity Knocks" job fair at Timberland High School on Wednesday.