This content was published: June 21, 2010. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Cascade employment event inspirational for attendees
Contributed Story
On June 15, “The Pursuit of Employment” motivational event at the Cascade Campus featured keynote speaker Kal Robertson, Director of the Emergency Services Program. Pursuit of Employment is a series of events scheduled during the break at the end of each term designed to bring information to those in the job-seeking community.
Attendees at Cascade's "Pursuit of Employment" event.
Robertson shared her experience. She told the crowd, “Don’t let anyone define who you are and what you can do.” Robertson also talked about useful tips on resume writing to make job-seekers more attractive to potential employers; how to present oneself with confidence when interviewing and networking; knowing your strengths and weaknesses; developing skills by taking classes at PCC; and tips on creating your own job and how to market yourself. The event is intended to inspire and motivate those who are interested in using the resources at their disposal to gather labor market information, indentify industries that need their skills, and to move forward to gainful employment.
In addition to Robertson, the event featured panelists Sonja McKenzie, Dolcie Kaylor, Kate Horan and Liz Vice. Vice encouraged others by sharing her story of filling her dream as a film director especially when others tell you “no way”. Strong, determined, and full of courage she shared her experience when a little over 5 years ago she suffered from kidney, heart and respiratory failures. A team of medical doctors told her that there was no way that she was going to make it. Mindful of pursing her dream, she completed her associate’s degree at PCC and went on to become valedictorian for the class of 2009 at the Art Institute of Portland. Since, she has directed, produced, and written a couple of short films and is currently a CEO of Fishgate Films and co-CEO Vice-Charlton Productions in Portland.
In closing the event, Tracee Wells, PCC Workforce Trainer & Career Placement specialist, ended with powerful words of insight, encouragement and motivation to job seekers. The next event will be in September at the Cascade Campus.