Shop HQ holds drive thru job fair

BOWLING GREEN Ky.-During this Covid-19 pandemic, hopeful applicants gathered outside Shop HQ’s fulfillment center in Bowling Green Thursday with their masks and resumes, hoping to land new jobs at the company’s call center.

Applicants like Anthony Mathis, a rising senior at Western Kentucky University, were looking for new job opportunities at the drive thru job fair.

“I originally heard about this through the intercultural student engagement center. It’s a program at Western Kentucky University that I’m a part of. They tried to make sure that during this pandemic that they try to give their students jobs and opportunities. It’s tough right now,” Mathis said.

Interested individuals received an application when they arrived, which they then filled out. After that, applicants were interviewed by company representatives. Mathis said he was dressed for success.

“I was ready. It’s a whole different type of vibe when you have a suit on,” Mathis said.

This job fair was being held to meet the increasing demand of increasing customer calls. Shop HQ senior vice president of operations Jon Sanders said this method was an efficient way to meet this demand.

“This was just an idea that we partnered with the Chamber, Goodwill, and the workforce development board here in Bowling Green. We thought we’d give it a try and see what happens,” Sanders said.

Sanders said he was glad to not only meet the need of his company, but help others find new jobs, especially since the pandemic has caused many to lose the jobs they had.

“If we can somehow give some people a chance to get employed and find full-time work when so many people have lost their jobs, it’s a great thing for us and the community,” Sanders said.

The reaction was reiterated by Mathis, who says he’s thankful for this opportunity

“I’m thankful for the people out here trying to make job opportunities for college students during this pandemic,” Mathis said.