From TOLEDO METROPOLITAN AREA COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
Students and adults can learn how to pursue careers in the public sector during a special event set for Thursday, Oct. 9, from 4:30 – 7 p.m. Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG) and Owens Community College will present “Pathways to Public Service” in Heritage Hall on Owens’ Perrysburg campus.
This is not a hiring fair, but rather an opportunity to explore the many benefits of careers in the public sector. With more than 25% of public employees over the age of 50 expected to become eligible for retirement in the next decade, the event aims to raise awareness of future workforce needs.
During the “Career Exploration Expo,” attendees will have the opportunity to visit with public employees from across the region to learn about the types of positions they offer, and the skills and education typically required.
Breakout sessions will feature panels of public employees sharing their personal journeys, insights into their roles, and practical advice for those considering similar paths. Attendees can hear how they got started, what keeps them motivated, and the benefits of serving the public.
Career fields represented will include:
- Public safety: firefighting, law enforcement, and EMS
- Public service: planning, zoning, facilities, and operations
- Public works: engineering, utilities, and infrastructure maintenance
- Administration: economic development, finance, and communications
- Information services: education, libraries, mapping, and technology
- Parks and recreation: stewardship, management, and programming
Advanced registration is encouraged but not required. For more information or to register, visit https://tmacog.org/events/pathways.
“Public sector careers offer rewarding opportunities to make a difference in your community, in addition to comprehensive benefits, strong retirement plans, professional development, and the potential for advancement. We invite students and adults to hear directly from people in interesting careers and learn about the skills and education that helped them achieve success,” said Sandy Spang, executive director of TMACOG.
“Our partnership with TMACOG reflects Owens Community College’s commitment to building a stronger future for our region. Public sector careers offer more than just stability. They offer purpose and the chance to shape our communities,” said Denise Smith, provost and chief academic officer for Owens Community College. “By connecting individuals to meaningful opportunities, we’re helping them discover pathways to personal fulfillment, while also making a regional impact. This collaboration is one more way we’re turning our mission into action.”
