Local job seekers were at Austin Peay State University's Armory on Thursday hoping to find work.

The Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the Opportunity Clarksville Career Expo. It was conceived three years ago as a way to connect job seekers with employers.

Those looking for work ran the gamut from people needing full-time employment to students looking for part-time jobs to help pay for school.

Jenna Shire graduated from college a year ago, but has had little luck in finding full-time employment.

I just need a job, she said. I graduated (from APSU) last May, and I'm looking for something permanent.

Shire has been doing odd jobs such as retail and temporary work during the past year.

The market's been good, Shire said. I've been able to find work when I need it.
The part-time market hasn't been so good for Corey Choak who is a sophomore at APSU.

I'm looking for something permanent, part-time until I finish school, he said. The job market has been very slim. I guess it's because there are a lot of military wives here looking for part-time work.

All the companies participating at the Expo have jobs to fill.

I know we have (job openings) on a consistent basis, said Tonja Baldridge, recruiter for Convergys. The customer service market is a growing field, and we've been consistently growing.

Baldridge said her company is looking for both full-time and part-time employees and offers tuition reimbursement and flexible schedules for students.

Right now, we're offering full-time (employment) and will go to part-time once school starts, she said.

Neldra Mackins, a Mary Kay Cosmetics consultant, was looking for new recruits as well. She said her company offers women a way to make a six-figure income while staying at home with their children.

We're looking for sharp women who want something more for their lives, and want more for their families, Mackins said.

Mary Kay has had a record-breaking year. They tell us there are three things that are recession-proof -- alcohol, tobacco and cosmetics.

Some other companies participating in this year's Expo were Gateway Medical Center, 92.7 FM WHOP radio, APSU, Primerica, The Leaf-Chronicle, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marines.