Sen. Williams speaks to participants at a recent career clinic held in anticipation of the new Xfinity Live! Entertainment complex.
PHILADELPHIA, March 1, 2012 — State Sen. Anthony H. Williams continues his efforts to drive down unemployment rates in his district, recently connecting more than 80 experienced job seekers with career opportunities in the food and beverage industry.
The latest Williams’ Career Clinic guided and trained attendees about the specific skills and background required for the highly anticipated Xfinity Live! Philadelphia entertainment complex – and hires from that class already have taken place.
“I was thrilled to co-host this important event to connect the region’s citizens who are looking for hospitality careers with these new employment opportunities,” said Williams. “There are numerous, talented individuals seeking work in the district. Xfinity Live! is set to become the region’s most sought after entertainment venue, and is committed to increasing the region’s workforce. It was the perfect marriage to officiate.”
His office recruited attendees from area culinary schools and employment centers that specialize in the food industry. While most career fairs offer job seekers an array of potential employers and perfunctory resume submissions, Williams tailored his event for Xfinity Live! because it is seeking applicants for positions that are available immediately.
Attendees received specific guidance on how to qualify and apply for employment positions currently available. Xfinity Live! representatives spoke in detail about the skills and experience required for employment and about their culture, history and expectations. And then interviews took place.
Slated to open in March, Xfinity Live! will feature multiple new dining, shopping, entertainment and sports viewing experiences on the former Spectrum site, in the heart of South Philadelphia’s sports complex.
This is one in a series of such career clinics Williams has developed, geared toward matching corporations searching for talent, such as SEPTA, with potential employees.
“There is nothing more important than keeping our neighbors gainfully employed,” Williams said. “These career clinics stand to strengthen households and provide hope, particularly in a job market this tight.
“With the latest unemployment figures averaging about 8.6 percent – 10.1 in Philadelphia, 7.2 in Delaware County – these career clinics are a win-win situation for all involved,” Williams added. “And as long as I can play a role in making these types of successful events happen, I will.”
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