More Than 1,000 Attend 2nd Annual Southwest Job Fair: Officials

ORLAND PARK, IL — The second annual Southwest Job Fair, held on January 16 at the Tinley Park Convention Center, proved to be a resounding success. The event brought together over 1,200+ job seekers, triple the attendance levels from the 2024 event, and over 100 employers, bridging the gap between talent and opportunities in the southwest suburbs.

“I am thrilled with the success of the 2025 Southwest Job Fair,” said Orland Park Mayor Keith Pekau. "This event has once again facilitated valuable connections between job seekers and employers. I look forward to our agencies building on this momentum and hosting an even more successful event in 2026.”

Attendees had the chance to submit resumes, engage in on-the-spot interviews and learn about available positions and career paths within a wide variety of industries, including Manufacturing, Education, Food & Hospitality, Finance and Healthcare. Government entities included the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, DuPage County Health Department and Forest Preserves of Cook County. Chicago, Orland Park, Tinley Park and Palos Heights Police Departments and a variety of Cook County departments also attended the event.

“It is gratifying to see such enthusiastic participation at the second Southwest Job Fair,” said Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison. It is an honor to work with the Villages of Orland Park and Tinley Park to co-sponsor this much needed outreach opportunity for both employers and jobseekers alike.”

As well as meeting potential employers, mock interview workshops, professional headshots and one-on-one meetings with HR professionals were provided free of charge. These workshops covered topics such as interview techniques, resume feedback, and other valuable insights and guidance. All attendees were entered into a raffle, with the event giving away 30 backpacks, twenty $20 gas cards and one hundred $10 gift cards. Four lucky winners also received HP laptops.

“It was great seeing so many connections being made between employers and those looking for new careers,” Tinley Park Mayor Michael Glotz said. “Finding work can sometimes be a daunting task, and we’re glad to be able to help area residents with job fairs like these.”

The Village of Orland Park, the Village of Tinley Park and the Office of Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison would like to thank the Tinley Park Convention Center for hosting, as well as Bobbie Noonan’s Child Care and Secureone Security for sponsoring and contributing to the success of the event.

Plans for the 2026 Job Fair are already in motion, with a focus on enhancing the experience for both job seekers and employers. Stay tuned to SWJobFair.com for updates on the next event.