(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Getting that first job—or even exploring the idea of one—can be a major step forward. For young people, especially those in high school or just out of college, employment is about more than just a paycheck. It’s a chance to show up, take initiative, work with others, and gain the kind of confidence that only real-world experience can bring.
The Simi Valley Job and Career Fair, happening Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Simi Valley Public Library, 2969 Tapo Canyon Road, is designed to open that door. Now in its 37th year, the event is hosted by the City of Simi Valley Youth Employment Service (YES), in partnership with the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise, and the Simi Valley Public Library. And while the focus is on youth—particularly those ages 18 to 22—anyone looking for work is welcome.
“We don’t check ID at the door,” said Ryan Fowler, who coordinates YES and also leads local youth programs like the Simi Valley Youth Council. “The primary demographic is younger people looking for entry-level jobs, but anybody is welcome to come. You never know where a conversation with an employer might lead.”
Fowler stepped into this role a year ago, building on a background that includes teaching kindergarten, working with teens at the YMCA, and helping organize civic programming for high school students through the Reagan Library. He sees the job fair as part of a bigger mission. Youth services, he said, benefit more than just the individual—they help strengthen the entire community.
This year’s event offers far more than tables and brochures. Attendees can start the day with mock interviews at City Hall, then head to the library for on-the-spot resume help, job application guidance, and mobile resume printing. Free coffee will be available in the Library’s Rose Garden, adding a touch of comfort to the process.
Two workshops will round out the day. At 10:30 a.m., JPMorgan Chase, in collaboration with two local high school students who run their own financial literacy initiative for teens, will present a Money Skills workshop focused on budgeting and smart money habits. Fowler explained that when young people get a job, they should also know how to manage their earnings and plan for the future.
At 11:30 a.m., the Simi Institute for Careers & Education will lead a session titled “Alternatives to University,” aimed at highlighting careers in the trades and other hands-on industries. The goal is to relieve some of the pressure students feel about going to a four-year college and offer concrete options that can lead to stable, well-paying jobs in fields like manufacturing, health services, and construction. Fowler emphasized that university isn’t the right path for everyone, and that fulfilling careers can be found in a variety of directions.
Moorpark College will also be represented at the fair, offering insight into its certificate programs, associate degrees, and industry training designed to lead directly into the workforce.
The list of participating employers continues to grow and includes a wide variety of fields: business services, education, foodservice, health care, hospitality, municipal government, insurance, military, entertainment, technology, manufacturing, and more. Attendees will have a chance to speak directly with representatives from Amazon, the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, ABACORP CNC Machined Parts, Pacific Senior Care, Code Ninjas, Devoted Care Services, STAR Education, Goodwill Industries, Sub Zero Creamery, AppleOne Employment Services, Home Instead, New York Life, Center for Autism and Related Disorders, the City of Simi Valley, Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District, SVPD and Explorer Post 2910, the U.S. Air Force, 1Heart Caregiver Services, the Simi Valley Pet Resort, and several others.
The fair is free to attend, and organizers expect more than 400 job seekers from age 15 and up to take part. For many, this may be their first time interacting with a potential employer face-to-face. Even if someone doesn’t walk away with a job offer, just attending can build practical skills and boost confidence. Entry-level positions—whether in retail, food service, or child care—often provide the foundation for strong work habits and valuable people skills that carry over into any profession.
For those unsure of what comes next, the job fair offers a rare opportunity: a space to ask questions, meet people, explore options, and start shaping the future, one step at a time.
For more information or to connect with Youth Employment Service, contact Ryan Fowler at [email protected], or visit www.simivalley.org/YESJobPosting.
