Dozens of future educators visited Troy University’s Dothan Campus for the annual Teacher’s Career Fair on Thursday.

The event brought representatives from school districts throughout Alabama, Georgia and Florida, all looking to interact with people seeking an education career.

“I was eager to come and participate, because I wanted to meet new talent, those just getting out of school, and also network to discuss best trends and practices,” said Aldric Bennett, a representative of the Tuscaloosa City School District. “We’re engaged in recruiting the best talent that is willing to work and help our students reach success.”

Callie Gulledge will graduate from TROY in May with an elementary education degree, and Thursday marked a key opportunity for her and other future educators.

“I’m looking for a job,” said Gulledge, a Skipperville native. “I wanted to get my resume out there, let people see my face and hear my name, and hopefully a job will emerge from it. I definitely think those of us who attended will get some job offers. There are opportunities out there.”

Another education major, Colleen Stephens of Dothan, left the Teacher’s Career Fair with similar optimism.

“It was nice to meet people and have all these school districts in one place,” Stephens said. “It’s extremely important to have this chance, just being able to shake some hands, network and see what schools might be right for you.”

Those already working in education attested to the event’s importance.

“I remember going to a teacher’s fair several years ago when I was in school, and it was very beneficial to me,” said Bennett, an assistant principal at Westlawn Middle School. “I got to hear what schools need, tweak my approach to interviews and my resume to make sure I was filling the needs they have. I think it’s of the utmost importance.”