Job fair draws in crowd of 1,500+

NORWICH, Conn. (WTNH) — A larger than expected crowd gathered in Norwich Wednesday in hopes of landing a job.

For many, the clock is ticking as their unemployment is about to run out, if it hasn't already.

News 8's Tina Detelj spoke to some of the more than 1,500 people willing to do just about anything for work.

"There is some companies that I could obviously work for, but like the police officer probably too old, EB too technical, Holiday Inn I probably made twice as much as they're offering," said Michelle Cohen, of Groton, "but I'm willing to do it."

"I'm looking for food service," said Shawn Fitzpatrick, of Norwich.

"I'm employed, but I was looking for something to supplement my income right now," said Sherrell Barlow, of Norwich.

The Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored this job fair in Norwich says about a quarter of the 1,500 people are looking to upgrade from part-time to full, but most are completely out of work.

"We had a line of people all the way out to the street," said Tony Sheriden, Eastern CT Chamber of Commerce, "which surprised and saddened us."

The state's unemployment rate has dropped enough though to end the extension of federal unemployment benefits.

"Whoever picks me will be happy with me I can guarantee you that," said Tara McGee, of Norwich.

Whether or not folks leave with or without a job many will be leaving with a revamped resumes. Consultants were present and the line was steady all day long with folks that wanted to know how to best sell themselves.

"How often do you actually hire someone from one of these fairs," asked News 8's Tina Detelj.

"Well what they have to do is fill out an application, which is online," said Barbara Chubbuck, Day Kimball Hospital.

Chubbuck does take resumes and says she will put in a good word for many she met at the job fair.