MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- The depot hosted its semiannual free Career and Education Fair Feb. 2 at the field house for both service members and civilians.
The event featured more than 80 different associations, schools and businesses, to help inform depot staff about educational and employment opportunities available.
James Brooks, career resource specialist, and Sam Bagwell, education officer here, were the two major organizers for this event. Being a prior serviceman, Brooks understands what kind of hassles come with the discharge.
"(We did this) to offer Marines who are transferring out a convenient way to find new employment," said Brooks. "It would save them the time and frustration of going out in town for interviews."
Attendees gave on-the-spot interviews, and opportunities extended to a wide range of individuals, including family members.
Businesses and schools also came from other areas, including the Riverside Police Department and the Las Vegas Police Department.
Though the event concentrated on business and employment, educators from local colleges extended invitations to young Marines looking to pursue degrees.
"A lot of Marines do not even think about getting out until they are close," said Headquarters and Service Battalion sergeant major Sgt. Maj. Armando Escobedo. "The education aspect is good for the Marines staying in so they can do it after hours. They came here to offer school to our Marines instead of having them go look through the yellow pages."
The next fair is scheduled for June 15. For more information, call either Brooks at (619) 524-1283 or Bagwell at (619) 524-6865.