East Tennessee State University will host its Educator Preparation Career Fair on April 20, offering future teachers an opportunity to connect directly with school systems and explore employment options across the region.
The event, organized through the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development, will take place from noon to 4 p.m. in the Culp Ballroom. Approximately 24 school systems are expected to attend, with most representing districts across Tennessee and at least one from out of state.
Allie Fals, a career coach for Clemmer College, said the career fair is designed to help education students transition from the classroom to the workforce.
“We really want our teachers to get jobs and network,” Fals said. “A lot of them are already in schools and classrooms, so it’s a good opportunity for them to work on the employment side of things and make those connections.”
Unlike broader on-campus career fairs, the educator preparation event is tailored specifically to students pursuing teaching careers.
“This is solely for educators,” Fals said. “Other fairs have a variety of employers, but this one is really focused in on that population.”
The event also highlights the community-driven nature of education, giving students exposure to school systems across the state and helping them identify where they may best serve.
“Education has always been community-based,” Fals said. “This allows students to explore different communities around Tennessee and find a place they connect with before graduating.”
Local districts, including Johnson City Schools and Washington County Schools, are expected to be represented, continuing strong partnerships between the university and area school systems.
Fals encouraged students to approach the fair professionally and come prepared with resumes, noting that even if positions are not immediately available, connections made at the event can lead to future opportunities.
“Dressing professionally and having a resume to leave behind is important,” she said. “Even if a school doesn’t have an opening now, things can change over the summer.”
She also emphasized the importance of keeping an open mind and using the experience as practice.
“Any interaction is valuable,” Fals said. “Even if you’re not interested in a specific position, it’s good to build connections and practice those professional skills.”
As schools nationwide continue to face staffing shortages, Fals said the demand for educators remains high across grade levels and subject areas.
“There’s a need everywhere,” she said. “Education has always been important, and that need is still there.”
Looking ahead, Fals noted that the job search process for educators is evolving, with increased emphasis on digital presence and networking.
“It’s not going to be just in-person anymore,” she said. “Building connections and having a digital presence is becoming more important.”
The career fair is open to ETSU students pursuing careers in education, with organizers hoping it will serve as a bridge between aspiring teachers and the communities that need them most.
For more information, visit etsu.edu/students/careers.
