Recruiters offer more than recreation at Delaware State Fair

DOVER — Everyone who goes to the Delaware State Fair has a reason, whether it be for recreation, to compete in the contests or to sample the food. But according to recruiters stationed at the fair, not many show up looking for work —unless they find it.

The lion’s share of the outdoor booths at the fairgrounds offer food and drinks or games and prizes, but some services are mixed in and a percentage of those are recruiting for possible job applicants.

Frontloaded toward Gate 1, the Marine Corps., Dover Police Department, Delaware Departments of Corrections, Delaware Department of Education and corporate giant Walmart were all doing some degree of recruiting.

Tables are overflowing with pamphlets, hard candy, pens and assorted swag.

But what makes someone seeking pleasure shift into business mode?

Dayton Lopez, heading up Walmart’s recruitment effort at the fair, said it was his company’s reach that people find most attractive.

“It’s actually really helpful because it gives more exposure to our positions and opportunities in Walmarts outside the area, but also promotes every Walmart around the area,” he said.

Mr. Lopez estimates a 60-40 split between those seeking jobs in their neighborhoods and those looking for opportunities elsewhere.

For Sgt. Steven Carpenter, recruiting and enlisting future Marines is his passion and the Pittsburgh-area native is only too happy to bring his talents to Harrington.

“Of course, for the Marines you’re going to have a certain type of person we’re looking for. Not everyone is suited to join the Marine Corps,” which adds to the challenge, he explained.

Sgt. Carpenter said two of every 10 people he talks to fit the mold, but only about half of those are qualified to join.

“Even if we weren’t getting anything out of it, I would still come out here to represent the Marine Corps,” he said. “I love the Marine Corps.”

For the Dover Police, it’s about filling vacancies if possible. But the fair also provides an important opportunity for community interactions.

“We make a lot of contacts, speak to a lot of people and it also has a positive effect as far as public relations,” Sgt. Joseph Bauer said. “We get to be out in the public, speak with them and have positive conversations.”

A lot of that is answering questions, Sgt. Bauer said. People are curious, the Dover native explained, and want to know more about why police do what they do, who they are, but most of all, their equipment.

“They want to know what kinds of things we actually have — our vehicles, gear, various things like that.”

Tucked back farther into the festival grounds is the Department of Education, who is spreading the word about the need for bus drivers.

Tyler Bryan, education associate for school transportation at the Delaware Department of Education, was handing out bus safety information this week as well as helping to spread the word about local contractor needs.

“We are advertising our districts where bus contractors could use bus drivers and aides for the upcoming school year,” Mr. Bryan said.

The district provides training and incentive opportunities to both new and drivers seeking recertification, he said.

“There are opportunities everywhere in Kent and Sussex counties. We encourage you to reach out to your local school districts, and their transportation offices should be able to let you know about opportunities,” he said.

So while thousands content themselves to explore the fair for the food, the sights, the sounds, the smells and the songs, those not expecting to find an opportunity, just might.