(The following is a press release from the Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce.)
Willow Springs, MO. – The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce partnered with WSHS and area businesses on
Friday, October 23, to host a successful Career Fair that introduced students to a wide range
of career opportunities available after graduation.
Held from 9 a.m. to noon in the Bear’s Den at Willow Springs High School, the event brought
together 29 businesses and organizations representing industries ranging from roofing and
construction to healthcare, manufacturing, banking, public safety, and more. Every high
school student, from freshmen through seniors, had the opportunity to visit with business
representatives, ask questions, and learn about career paths they may not have previously
considered.
The goal of the Career Fair was to help students recognize that there are many paths to a
successful future beyond high school, and that college is not the only option. Representatives
shared information about their industries, potential career opportunities, and the skills and
training needed to enter their fields.
The conversations throughout the morning were encouraging. Some students left resumes
with businesses, while others discussed potential internship opportunities. For many students,
these conversations may have been the beginning of a new idea, an opportunity, or a clearer
direction for their future.
“It was amazing to watch these conversations happening throughout the room and think about
how one conversation might plant a seed that changes the course of a student’s life, or
reinforces a path they are already considering,” said Kim McCormick, Executive Director of
the Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce. “We are incredibly grateful to our business
community for taking the time to invest in these students and show them the opportunities
available right here in our region.”
209 E Main St | PO Box 322 | Willow Springs, Mo 65793 | 417-469-5519 | willowspringschamber@gmail.com
The Chamber extends a special thank-you to Mr. Forrest and the Willow Springs High School
staff and leadership team for preparing the Bear’s Den and providing coffee, snacks, and
tablecloths for participating businesses. Students who helped bring in supplies and set up for
the event were also a tremendous help, demonstrating the same courtesy and work ethic that
local employers value.
The 29 participating businesses and organizations were:
• Robert Hollis Shelter Insurance
• Ozark Radio News – Ozark Marketing
• United Country Real Estate – The Ozarks
• Simmons Bank
• West Plains Bank and Trust Company
• West Plains Daily Quill
• Missouri State Highway Patrol
• Howell County Sheriff’s Office
• Main Street Wellness Center
• Willow Care Nursing Home
• Jasper Engines & Transmissions
• Gilbert Industries
• DRS Technologies
• Southern Missouri Technical Institute
• Missouri Department of Conservation
• Vintage Floral
• Three Rivers Hospice
• Penmac Howell County
• Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative, Inc.
• Poor Farms
• American Pride Roofing
• Bailey Chevy
• Coastal-FMC
• Children’s Behavioral Services, LLC
• L&R Industries
• Lakeland Pharmacy #7
• Ozarks Healthcare
• Willow Springs Public Library
• Waggoner Home Center
The Career Fair demonstrated what can happen when schools, businesses, and community
organizations work together toward a common goal. By connecting students directly with
employers, the event helped bridge the gap between education and the workforce while
encouraging students to explore the many possibilities ahead of them.
The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce thanks every participating business for showing
up, sharing their knowledge, and investing in the next generation of workers and leaders.
It was a great day in Willow Springs, and a reminder that investing in our kids is an
investment in the future of our entire community.
For more information, contact the Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce at 417-469-5519 or
willowspringschamber@gmail.com.
