Hiring Outside the Box, continued
Second Chance Success Sharing some of the hiring stories from the recent Second Chance Job Fair
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WENDY REEVES
anessa Watkins walked a couple of miles to get to the Second Chance Job Fair. She left with a new housekeeping job at Candlewood Suites. “I saw it on the news, Channel 48,” Watkins said. “I went on the website and scrolled down the list of who was going to be there, and I saw Candlewood on there and decided to go.” Jennifer Middleton hired Watkins on the spot. Middleton is the director of sales for Candlewood Suites Huntsville-Research Park. “I came through the door, went straight to (Middleton) and told her she was the reason I came and that I needed a job ASAP,” Watkins said. “I’ve been working all my life, and this is a perfect fit for me.” Watkins said she is happy with the results. “I love my job, and I’m not going anywhere. This is a blessing to me, and I come to work faithfully because it’s the best thing I’ve ever had,” Watkins said. “When I leave this earth, it will be L-R: Vanessa Watkins and Jennifer Middleton of Candlewood Suites. from here.” Watkins is one of many people who found work through the ties are endless in the hospitality industry, from housekeepers to Second Chance Job Fair, held on February 27 at the Jaycee Comengineers. munity Building in Huntsville. She said Candlewood’s parent company, the IHG Group, spon“Many of the people in Huntsville who want to work already sors the IHG Academy, offered to motivated individuals from any do,” Middleton said. “Our unemployment rate is low, and finding background who want to get a head start in their hospitality capeople to work is hard.” reer. Middleton mentors underserved youth at area high schools “When the opportunity to participate in the Second Chance Job where she talks about her job and how the industry offers reFair came along, I knew there’s no better industry for someone to sources for them to stay in school and graduate. She also finds out get a chance in because I know so many success stories,” Middleif they would enjoy a career in hospitality. ton said. Whether it’s a college student who isn’t sure what they want to She believes Watkins is on track to be added to that list of sucdo, or someone who needs an opportunity, she says the possibilicess stories. 22
initiatives jun 2019
A HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CHAMBER PUBLICATION