More than 100 students took time Friday to speak with representatives from 33 health-care agencies from both sides of the border at the 2023 Nursing Career Fair in the CAW Student Centre’s Alumni Auditorium. The event helped match future grads to prospective employers from hospitals, health-care organizations, and agencies all offering full-time, part-time, and occasional nursing opportunities.

“It’s incredible to see such a great turnout from our students, alumni, and of course, employers from Canada and the U.S. Many of these organizations have travelled quite a distance to be here,” said Susan Fox, associate dean in the Faculty of Nursing. “And by observing the interactions between our nursing students and alumni with potential employers, you can really sense the connections that are being made. It’s truly putting an exclamation mark on the day.”

Dr. Fox pointed out that the worker shortage in health care and in particular nursing, highlights the importance of job fairs and recruitment events. Demand is higher than supply; Fox emphasized that there has never been a better time to enter the nursing profession, especially with government programs like the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant.

Krista Kelly, manager of career development and experiential learning, said her office helped prepare students in advance of Friday’s fair by hosting nursing-focused events including workshops and resumé critiques, ensuring students put their best foot forward.

“This fair also helps build relationships with great employers by getting them on campus and exposing them to UWindsor student talent,” she said. “Choosing an entry level nursing job is an important moment, and ensuring our students have the opportunity to meet with potential employers for career planning is a valuable experience.”

Nadia Heddad, human resources adviser at Windsor Regional Hospital, said her team was looking forward to connecting with students in person this year.

“We were excited to visit the UWindsor campus to connect with students and provide insight into the career opportunities available at our hospital,” she said. “They asked great questions and were eager to learn and contribute.”

The event was jointly hosted by the Office of Career Development and Experiential Learning and the Faculty of Nursing.