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As some businesses continue to struggle to fill open jobs, the Ely Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a seminar aimed at helping business owners find workforce solutions.
On top of annual job fairs and job posting boards, the Ely Chamber will once again offer a free seminar with InterExchange - a business facilitating connections between employers in the United States and international college students The seminar, which will be conducted virtually, is set for Thursday, Aug. 29, at 1 p.m.
“Interested businesses need to start planning now for their 2025 employees. The J1 VISA—USA Bridge program opens in October. When we had InterExchange do the previous seminar, we realized businesses had weeks, not months, to register for the program. We hope to provide extra time to register,” said Eva Sebesta, Executive Director of the Ely Chamber of Commerce.
A news release issued by the Chamber this week offered some insight about how the program works.
International students register through InterExchange and pay their way to Ely. B usinesses need to provide housing, access to meal preparation or meals, and pay a competitive wage.
“Ely, Minnesota is an incredible place for international students to work. There are few places where people get off work, and are canoeing, boating, swimming, or hiking within five minutes. We also have amazing attractions,” said Sebesta.
Cultural exchange is also part of the program, and the Chamber is willing to work with businesses to create weekly activities for their international employees. If interest exists, the activities could also expand to include all seasonal employees.
Preregistration is necessary for the Aug. 29 event. Contact the chamber office at 218-365-6123 or [email protected] to register.
The Chamber has worked on several fronts in an effort to help business owners fill the employment gap.
That’s included participation in a series of job fairs, as well as efforts to help businesses attract employees from elsewhere.
