As the local community prepares for the closure of the local PACE Industries plant, impacting 178 employees, North Arkansas College is hosting its 2026 Career Fair at a time organizers say could not be more important.
“Early in my career, I was a dislocated worker. I understand the uncertainty and concern that came with that time. Education changed the direction of my life, and it can do the same for others,” said President Rick Massengale. “As our neighbors at PACE Industries face uncertainty, we want them to know they are not alone. The Career Fair is more than a hiring event – its’ an opportunity for new beginnings. Northark stands ready to help people find employment or gain the training they need to move confidently into the next chapter.”
The Career Fair is set for Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to – Noon at Pioneer Pavilion on the College’s South Campus. The event is free and open to the public.
With dozens of local and regional employers gathered in one location, the fair offers immediate job connections for those seeking employment. In addition, the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services Mobile Unit will be on site to assist individuals with filing for unemployment benefits and accessing workforce services. The mobile unit is an RV equipped with internet, computers, and printers. Staff will help individuals connect to various services to assist workers during a transition.
Dislocated PACE employees are especially encouraged to attend.
High school students exploring options after graduation, current college students preparing to complete their programs, and individuals considering a career change are all welcome.
Each year, the Career Fair hosts more than 60 employers representing industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, education, public safety, retail, construction, social services and more. Many employers conduct on-the-spot interviews. Attendees should dress professionally, bring a prepared résumé and be prepared to introduce themselves to potential employers.
For those considering a career change or retraining, representatives from Northark will be available to discuss short-term certificates, technical programs, and associate degrees designed to quickly prepare students for in-demand careers. The college offers 37 “Career in a Year” programs which can be accomplished in 12 months or less.
Employers are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Sign up for a booth at the fair here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/.../NorthArkansasCollegeCare...
For more information, contact Rebecca Martin at rmartin@northark.edu or call (870) 391-3152.
Employers attending this year are listed below and many more will be register as the fair draws nearer:
Pinnacle In Home Care
ARDOT
The Blossoms at Berryville
Boone County Sheriff’s Department
1st Choice Home Care
Ozark Mountain Media
Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Arkansas
Penmac Staffing Services, Inc
Harrison Radio Stations KCWD KNWA
The Learning Center of North Arkansas
Tyson Foods
Ozark Health Medical Center
Home Depot
Big Cedar Lodge
Boone County 911 Center
Branson Public Schools
CoxHealth
Sanctuary, Inc.
Newton County Special Service Corporation, Inc.
Pilgrim’s Progress Christian Outlet Store
United Country Property Connections
Baxter Health
Arkansas Agriculture Department Forestry Division
Fastenal
WIOA (Workforce)
LEGENDS
CRH - APAC Central
Tyson Foods
Ozark Rape Crisis Center
Casey Scribner State Farm
Boston Mountain Rural Health Center
Workforce Connections AR Department of Commerce
Harrison Fire Dept.
North Arkansas Regional Medical Center
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
Educational Opportunity Center
North Arkansas College
NWAEDD Mobile Workforce Unit