Listen Live
KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – The Mayor Blastos Room at Keene Ice buzzed with activity last Thursday, Sept. 19, as the Tri-State Recruitment Fair brought together roughly 20 employers and dozens of job seekers.
Sponsored by Monadnock Community Hospital and hosted by Monadnock Media Group, the event highlighted the region’s ongoing efforts to match local businesses with qualified workers, particularly in a job market that is starting to show signs of tightening.
According to New Hampshire Employment Security, the state’s preliminary unemployment rate for August 2024 stood at 2.6%, up slightly from 2.5 percent in July and 2.3 percent a year ago. Cheshire County, meanwhile, saw a similar rise, with unemployment ticking up from 2.7 percent in January to 3.2 percent in August.
Despite these increases, employers at the fair expressed optimism about the quality and enthusiasm of the applicants. Ellen Parker from Lactalis US Yogurt, a Brattleboro-based dairy company, noted, “We had 12 applicants, which was a good amount for us.” The company, known for its commitment to sustainable dairy practices, was one of several area businesses actively seeking new hires.
Other companies shared similar stories of engagement. Cota & Cota, a Bellows Falls-based business, had around six people show interest in positions like HVAC technician, CDL driver, and auto mechanic apprentice.
Local school districts also took advantage of the opportunity to recruit new talent. Katherine Osborn, Human Resources Coordinator for SAU 29, spoke with several potential hires about positions ranging from classroom assistants to certified teaching roles for grades K-12.
The recruitment fair attracted employers from a wide range of industries, reflecting the diversity of opportunities in the region. Employers included manufacturing firms like Whelen Engineering and Bensonwood, both of which emphasized the growing demand for skilled labor. Whelen Engineering, based in Charlestown, NH, is a global leader in emergency warning systems and offered positions in manufacturing and engineering. Bensonwood, known for its innovative off-site construction methods, focused on hiring for roles related to high-tech manufacturing and construction.
Healthcare and social services were also well represented. Cedarcrest, a Keene-based organization specializing in complex medical care for children, was one of several health-related employers looking for compassionate workers. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital and Springfield Hospital both attended, aiming to fill clinical and support positions. Monadnock Developmental Services (MDS) and Monadnock Family Services (MFS) were on hand as well, seeking candidates passionate about social services and mental health.
Keene’s local economy, while strong, is grappling with a higher demand for workers than the current labor supply can meet. Companies are competing for talent with incentives like sign-on bonuses, particularly for specialized positions like CDL drivers. First Student, a school bus service provider, received about 10 applicants for its part-time driver positions, which come with training and a sign-on bonus.
Other companies at the event, such as Hamshaw Lumber, Electronic Imaging Materials, and Chartwells, emphasized long-term career growth and community engagement. Hamshaw Lumber, which has locations in Greenfield and Keene, was actively recruiting for positions at its various locations, while Chartwells, the dining services provider for Keene State College, focused on hiring individuals passionate about food service and hospitality.
With opportunities spanning education, manufacturing, healthcare, and more, the event showcased the diverse and resilient nature of the local job market, even in the face of economic fluctuations. For those who missed this fair, many employers emphasized they are still actively recruiting, with some offering virtual applications and continued outreach in the coming weeks.