In response to what was described as a critical labor shortage impacting public service sectors across New York State, with 12,500 vacancies, State Sen. Robert Jackson (S.D. 31), chair of the NYS civil service & pension committee, in conjunction with NYS Civil Service Commissioner Timothy Hogues, held a civil service career fair at Bronx Community College on Tuesday, Dec. 19.

 

What was described as a landmark pivotal event included stands from 30 public service agencies and partners like the Workforce Development Institute and the New York State Department of Labor. Jackson said the goal was to dismantle barriers to employment, attract a diverse pool of skilled candidates, and retain a knowledgeable and experienced workforce.

 

“As chair of Civil Service and Pensions, I am acutely aware of the challenges we face due to understaffing in our state agencies. The ripple effects of this shortfall are felt across our communities, from hospitals struggling to meet patient needs to the management of our mental health services, the maintenance of our roads and transportation systems, and the protection of our environment.”

 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bronx County is experiencing an unemployment rate of 7.3%, higher than the New York State average, and nearly double the national average. By increasing access to public service careers in communities most affected by understaffing, officials said the fair was not just about filling vacancies; but was seen as a vital step towards empowering individuals in these communities.

The senator added, in part, “It’s about ensuring the wellbeing and safety of our citizens, and the effective functioning of services that are the backbone of our society. We must come together to address these gaps, for the health of our communities and the strength of our state.”

 

State and city agencies had recruiters on site ready to expedite employment opportunities for applicants, while across all levels of public service industries, the State of New York is grappling with labor shortages, affecting vital sectors such as education, healthcare, public safety, infrastructure, and more.

 

For his part, Hogues said of the event, “The Department of Civil Service is working proactively to help recruit the next generation of the New York State workforce. We are pleased to partner with Sen. Jackson to promote the thousands of jobs available right now, in a wide variety of occupations, at many of our partner state agencies.”

 

He added, “I encourage all interested jobseekers to reach out to us to learn more about beginning a rewarding career in public service that offers many benefits from paid time off to generous health plans to being able to make a difference in the lives of your fellow New Yorkers.”

 

Hundreds of community members were welcomed on the day, each keen on exploring varied, rewarding careers in the public sector. Dr. Milton Santiago, president of Bronx Community College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) public education system, thanked Jackson and Hogues for holding the job fair at Bronx Community College (BCC). “We appreciate the opportunity to  assist in helping to fill the twelve thousand available civil service positions that are open throughout New York State and here in our community,” he said.

From serving in the court system, electrifying buses, to supporting individuals with their mental health, the organizers said the event participants gained critical insights into career pathways, and the intricacies of civil service recruitment and selection processes.

 

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson was unable to attend the fair as she was attending the funeral of Bob Nolan, who had served under former Bronx Borough Presidents Stanley Simon, Fernando Ferrer, and Adolfo Carrión.

 

“Jobs, jobs, and jobs!” Gibson later said of the fair. “As we attempt to rebound our borough’s economy, it is imperative that we eliminate barriers that prevent our residents from having access to employment opportunities, workforce development, and pathways to future careers.”

 

In addition to speaking to agency employment recruiters on site, organizers said participants were exposed to civil service examination schedules, appointment processes, pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, as well as comprehensive career preparation resources.

Amy Desjardins, Workforce Development Institute executive director, said, “Public sector careers offer pathways to family-sustaining wages, family-securing benefits, and future career growth while providing crucial services to our communities and neighbors.”

 

She added, “The Workforce Development Institute (WDI) supports our partners from government, organized labor, employers, and education and training institutions to ensure workers have opportunities to build and grow their careers and attain economic self-sufficiency. We are proud to be a part of today’s event and grateful for those who heed the call to serve and improve their communities.”