Dozens of students filled the Student Union Ballroom earlier this spring for Fort Lewis College’s annual Career and Internship Expo , a nearly sold-out event held in March that connected students with employers from across industries and helped them explore opportunities beyond the classroom.
Employers recruited for full-time, part-time, internship, and seasonal or temporary roles, giving students access to opportunities at every stage of their academic and career journeys.
More than 227 Fort Lewis College students attended the fair, as well as 48 high school students from Animas High School, who visited campus with their teachers to gain early exposure to employers, practice networking skills, and explore future career possibilities. Jobseekers from the community were also welcomed.
“Our employer partners made this event meaningful. Their willingness to engage with students—answering questions, sharing insight, and discussing real opportunities—is something we don’t take lightly,” said Janae Hunderman, director of Career and Workforce at FLC. “Those conversations are where confidence grows, opportunities surface, and career pathways begin.”
Throughout the event, employer engagement was strong. Many recruiters reported speaking with 30 or more students at their tables, with some experiencing steady traffic throughout the fair. Staff from Mesa Verde National Park even used a clicker to track interest, counting 57 student visits during the event. Early employer survey responses also highlighted numerous strong and eligible candidates for open positions.
“Fort Lewis students are always such a joy to speak with. Engaging, inquisitive, and ready to work!” said Nate Adams, HR manager at The Glacier Club. “The vibe in the room was totally positive and we made some great connections!”
The Career Expo also provided students with the opportunity to practice professional skills in a supportive environment, reinforcing Fort Lewis College’s commitment to career readiness and hands-on learning.