2026 Spring Job Fairs!

YOUR Career Center would like to invite you to attend our annual Spring Job Fairs. Open to students, community, faculty, and staff - free for job seekers!

May 12, 2026 – Fort Steilacoom Campus, Cascade building 3rd floor

  • 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – dedicated to veterans, active duty and military connected students and community members.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Open to all

May 20, 2026 - Puyallup Campus, College Center 1st and 2nd floor

  • 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – dedicated to veterans, active duty and military connected students and community members.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Open to all

The Spring Job Fair is for YOU. Attending job fairs early in your education connects you with recruiters who can answer questions about your career pathway and provide insights that may change which courses you choose. These events can also lead to possible internships, job-shadowing, informational interviews, volunteer opportunities, and more! View registered employers in Handshake and note that some employers may attend one or both days.

Not sure what to expect during a job fair? Need to make a resume or update an existing resume? Unsure of what to say to recruiters?  Stop by or schedule an appointment with Career Center staff to review your resume, talk through how to prepare for a job fair, and practice your elevator pitch or other questions you may have about job fairs.

Employer of the Day

Talk with recruiters in an informal environment about positions they are recruiting for, the application process, and what it is like to work for that employer. Open to all. See details in Handshake.

Phoenix Police Department

  • Fort Steilacoom: Tuesday, April 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Cascade Building 3rd floor
  • Puyallup Campus: Wednesday, April 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., College Center 2nd floor

Visit with recruiters from the Phoenix Police Department to learn about becoming an officer, the application process, and the day-to-day activities of the team.

The Financial Aid Priority Timeline for Summer Term is May 4

If you plan to attend summer term, now is a great time to complete your 2026-2027 Financial Aid Application.  Additionally, many scholarships have early deadlines ahead of the next academic year.

Assistance completing your FAFSA or WAFSA application is available at no cost. MDC collocated staff are available to help in person or remotely! See staff directory for contact information.

Tips for Navigating a Job Fair:

Before the Fair: 

  • Update your resume. Have it reviewed by the Career Center and bring multiple copies for employers. Keep it to one page if possible
  • Prepare in advance. Be ready to talk about your education, coursework, internships, and career goals. Practice answers to common interview questions and prepare thoughtful questions for employers.
  • Research employers. Review the companies attending and identify those that align with your interests and career goals.
  • Create a 30‑second elevator pitch. Be ready to briefly introduce yourself and highlight your goals and strengths.
  • Dress professionally. Choose clean, well‑fitting business or business‑casual attire that’s comfortable for standing and walking.
  • Bring essential information. Have a list of references, campus involvement, and your job history for completing applications.
  • Organize materials. Carry resumes and documents in a professional portfolio or folder.

During the Fair

  • Visit priority employers first. Start with the employers you are most interested in first, then connect with others to build confidence and network.
  • Create impact. Smile, offer a handshake, and maintain eye contact.
  • Limit distractions. Avoid eating, drinking, chewing gum, or using your phone.
  • Communicate professionally. Speak clearly, avoid filler words, and project confidence in a noisy environment.
  • Take notes. Record recruiter names, company details, and follow-up preferences in a small notebook or planner. Accept business cards and note date and location you met the recruiter on the back.
  • Engage thoughtfully. Show genuine interest in the company and roles—not just promotional items.
  • Highlight what you bring. If unsure about specific roles, discuss your skills, experience, education, and interests. Clarify availability and work preference.
  • Ask for advice. Recruiters genuinely want to share advice and best practices on preparing for the field or next steps.
  • Network independently. Connect with employers individually.

After the Fair: 

  • Organize materials. Review business cards, notes, and applications collected.
  • Follow up promptly. Submit applications and resumes, referencing interactions and contacts from the fair in the cover letter. 
  • Show appreciation and interest. Email or mail thank you notes to recruiters with whom you had a meaningful connection.

Have more questions? Contact the Career Center for more tips and guidance.