GREENVILLE, Miss.- At a time when the country is hard pressed to provide jobs for the American people, one congressman is holding up his end of the bargain.
U.S. House of Representative Bennie Thompson, who represents Mississippi’s Second Congressional District, is determined to ensure that the make- up of America’s workforce is reflective of his district.
“Often times you hear people say they can’t find anybody for this job or that job or that the skill-sets don’t match,” Thompson said in a room filled with thousands of eager high school and college students. “This is proof positive that students are preparing themselves for the future and I believe it is my job and the job of others in congress to bring the opportunities to our districts.”
Thompson and his staff, for the fourth consecutive year, presented a job and college fair in an area where few opportunities seem to exist. “This is like Christmas in October for us,” said State Representative Willie Bailey, who represents Washington County. “These kids are here to investigate schools and jobs. Normally when they are here in the convention center, it is for a party or entertainment of some sorts. I’m happy.”
Bailey acknowledged that Greenville and other towns in the Mississippi Delta are fortunate to have representation in our nation’s capitol like Congressman Thompson. “Just as he always does, Rep. Thompson looks out for his district and makes sure that we are not only included but well represented on all levels,” said Bailey.
Nearly 100 vendors, including all four-year colleges/universities in Mississippi, assembled at the Washington County Convention Center to make their pitch in hopes of attracting some of Mississippi’s best.
“We have Homeland Security vendors, TSA employers and others here to offer real jobs and real opportunities,” Thompson said. “Some of the requirements are tough but our young folk in Mississippi are tougher, and we expect them to follow the process through.”
Nearly 3,000 young people walked through the doors of the convention center in hopes of shaping their future. “I had been looking forward to this opportunity for a long time,” said tenth -grader Rosa Smith who attends Madison Palmer High School in Quitman County. “We are not always exposed to these opportunities so when our counselor told us this college/job fair was going to take place, I waited with great anticipation.”
Thompson, who is seeking his ninth term in Congress in the upcoming November General Election, expressed great hope for Mississippi’s future and that of America. “I’m excited about what’s ahead for us, but we all must do our part and that includes voting for the people that have your best interest and the best interest of this state at heart,” said Thompson. “I have a proven record.”
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