POMEROY, OH – On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, more than 100 Southern High School students explored a variety of career paths at the Ohio Means Jobs Job Fair at the Meigs County Fairgrounds.
The event brought together an impressive lineup of local employers, colleges, and training programs eager to connect with the region’s next generation of workers. Representatives included NUCOR, General Mills, AEP, Quality Window Systems, Hocking College, Washington Career Center, University of Rio Grande, Holzer Health System, Great Clips, AOMC, OOD, Buckeye Hills Career Center, ResCare, Meigs Job and Family Services, Tri-County Career Center, Gallipolis Developmental Center, Army National Guard, U.S. Army, Carpenters & Millwrights Union, Thompson Concrete, IBEW 972-Marietta JATC, and Meigs County Public Transit.
Shelly Adams, Supervisor at Meigs County Ohio Means Jobs, praised both the participating businesses and schools for investing in students’ futures.
“It’s important for students to know what’s out there so they can make an informed decision on their future career plans,” Adams said.
NUCOR Highlights a Major Opportunity
One of the most talked-about booths was from steel producer NUCOR in Apple Grove, West Virginia. Although the business is still under construction, it’s expected to employ around 800 workers once fully operational in late 2026 (projected).
“About 300 of those jobs have already been filled,” shared Logan Dunlow, an electrician at NUCOR. “Graduating seniors have an amazing opportunity to earn an Electrical Technology associate in applied science degree. Students will get on-the-job training while attending college — and NUCOR pays the tuition. Once the program is complete, participants have a chance to be hired.”
To apply for the opportunity, go to: Nucor | Nucor Technical Academy.
Hands-On Healthcare Experiences
Buckeye Hills Career Center gave students a peek into the medical field with virtual reality experiences, including simulated childbirth.
They also had a laparoscopic surgery simulator that displayed realistic views of the inside of the body, including detailed images of the liver and colon.
General Mills: Hiring Now
General Mills’ New Hire Experience Leader, Tim Potts, was also on hand, highlighting open positions in production, maintenance, and electrical work at the Wellston plant.
“General Mills is a great company to work for,” Potts said. “There are opportunities for growth, benefits, and a family-oriented atmosphere. We also offer a variety of shifts to help with work-life balance.”
Community Support
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of SHS teachers Brian Allen, Jordan Pickens, Chad Dodson, Gary Kapp, Kevin Porter, Career Coach Beth Lanning, and counselor Russ Fields who chaperoned the trip.
Special thanks also go to OMJ-Meigs County for organizing the event (and providing snacks and water for the students), the Meigs County Fairgrounds for the venue, and The Coolspot Country Market in Tupper Plains for the donuts.
