PALM HARBOR, Fla. (27 August) - U.S. Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), representing Florida’s 9th Congressional District, today announced that he has teamed up with local employment centers in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties to host a career fair for residents of the 9th Congressional District.

A variety of area employers will be on hand at the Oldsmar Public Library on Wednesday, September 2nd between 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to accept resumes, job applications, and conduct interviews. In addition, career counselors will be available to discuss such topics as how to apply for a federal job, resume writing, job search strategies in a challenging economy and tips for a successful interview. The event is free and all area job-seekers are invited.

According to data from the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, the Tampa Bay area's unemployment rate now tops 11 percent while Florida's has risen to 10.7 percent. This equates to roughly 990,000 out of Florida's 9.2 million person labor force being out of work, reflecting more than 400,000 fewer jobs in Florida than a year ago.

"At a time when Floridians are facing double digit unemployment for the first time in decades, we must do all we can to connect those who are out of work with employers," said Bilirakis. "This career fair will serve as an excellent opportunity for those in search of work to meet with potential employers in the area."
 
Representatives from numerous area employers will be on hand along with the Tampa Bay Workforce Alliance, Worknet Pinellas, and the Upper Tampa Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of the following items to the fair:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References