Opportunities
available for local businesses, veterans
ODOT Civil Rights Field Coordinator Christie Meacham is always on the lookout for opportunities to connect local businesses with state construction projects. Meacham oversees the DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprises) and MWESB (Minority, Women Business Enterprises and Emerging Small Businesses) programs for the southern Oregon region. ODOT Job Fair Today If you’re a small business, ODOT is on your side. The agency is hosting a “How to Work with ODOT” job fair today, April 23 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Rogue Regency Inn, 2300 Biddle Road in Medford. The job fair is open to everyone.
relatively short in duration. Virtually all projects selected for exclusive bidding by MWESBs are advertised on the Oregon Procurement Information Network (ORPIN) system. You can go online to learn more here: orpin.oregon.gov/open.dll/welcome.
Veterans Services & Job Fair May 20 Jackson and Josephine County employers will have the opportunity to interview some of the best men and women America has to offer, while learning the benefits of hiring veterans at the the agency’s goal Hire-A-Vet, Veterans Services & Job Fair. The is to solicit and event is free and schedaward contracts uled for Thursday, May quickly, get people 20 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the lower level of working and get the Rogue Valley Mall, companies paid. 1600 N. Riverside Ave.
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ODOT Civil Rights Field Coordinator Christie Meacham
“DBE and MWESB certification gives contractors more opportunities,” said Meacham. “There’s a wide range of construction projects. We do more than just build highways and bridges. Our agency contracts for construction projects at rest areas and maintenance facilities to name a few.” According to Meacham, the agency’s goal is to solicit and award contracts quickly, get people working and get companies paid. For more information about these opportunities, contact Meacham at (541) 957-3698. Minority-, Women-owned and Emerging Small Businesses Many contracting opportunities in the MWESB program are estimated to cost less than $100,000 and are
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According to the Oregon Employment Department, veterans bring with them integrity, leadership skills, teamwork skills, experience working in diverse teams, and experience with technology and globalization. Some veteran candidates qualify for business tax credits that can save business owners thousands. Veteran candidates provide several advantages; they: • operate on an accelerated learning curve; • offer efficient performance under pressure; • respect procedures; and • know how to follow health & safety standards.
For more information about what veterans can do for your business, go online to www.hirevetsfirst.dol.gov or call Gina Green at (541) 776-6060 x225.
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ODOTMOVINGAHEAD.COM
April 23, 2010