SAN DIEGO, CA (April 9, 2025) — For many young people, landing that very first job is a defining moment—and a critical step toward long-term career success. On Tuesday, April 22 from 4 to 6 p.m., the San Diego Workforce Partnership, in collaboration with Project Next and the San Diego North Economic Development Council (SDNEDC), will host a First Job Hiring Event at the San Marcos Community Center, offering youth ages 16-24 a chance to connect directly with employers ready to hire young talent.
Registration for the hiring fair is currently open, with anticipated attendance of more than 200 young adults from across the region. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with over 20 San Diego-based employers offering part-time, entry-level, and seasonal positions designed to introduce youth to the workforce. While resumes are recommended, they are not required—and pre-event resources will be provided to help students prepare.
“Young people are hungry for opportunity—they just need the right doors to open,” said Marian Daryaie, Director of Strategic Partnerships at San Diego Workforce Partnership. “This event is about more than getting a first job—it’s about building confidence, gaining real-world experience, and helping students discover where they want to start their career journeys.”
According to recent research, youth unemployment in California for individuals ages 16 to 19 is more than three times the statewide average. Events like this are designed to address that gap by providing direct pathways to employment and exposure to industries where young adults can begin to grow their skills early.
“At Project Next, we believe every student deserves the chance to explore their future with support and intention,” said Lisa Stout, Executive Director of Project Next. “The First Job Hiring Event is one of the many ways we help young people in North County imagine and pursue their potential. A first job is more than just a paycheck—it’s an opportunity to gain valuable skills, build confidence, and start making connections that will benefit them in their career journey. We’re excited to connect students with employers who can help them take that important first step into the workforce.”
Erik Bruvold, CEO of the San Diego North Economic Development Council noted, “We strengthen our local north county workforce by ensuring young people get opportunities to acquire work skills and by exposing them to different work settings. This is a perfect fit with other programs that we have which seek to connect educators, employers and workforce talent.”
The First Job Hiring Event is free to attend, though registration is highly encouraged so participants can receive updates on resume workshops and preparation resources leading up to the event.
To learn more email info@sdnedc.org or register here.
Event Details:
What: First Job Hiring Event
When: Tuesday, April 22 | 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Where: San Marcos Community Center
3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069
Who: Young adults ages 16-24 interested in applying to their first job
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-job-hiring-event-tickets-1255102719019?aff=oddtdtcreator
About the San Diego Workforce Partnership
The San Diego Workforce Partnership drives economic innovation as a quasi-public, non- profit organization that bridges government, business, and community interests. Operating within the national network of Workforce Development Boards under WIOA, we serve as the catalyst for workforce excellence in San Diego County and City. Learn more at workforce.org.
About Project Next
Project Next is a non-profit organization that helps North San Diego County high school students plan and prepare for a future that’s best for them. Partnering with the San Marcos Unified and Escondido Union High School Districts, Project Next aims to open students’ eyes to the many pathways available, from college to trade school to the workforce, and helps them choose and pursue their own ideal direction. Students leave high school with a clear plan and purpose, professional skills, and invaluable connections to take into their future. For more information, visit projextnext.org
About San Diego North Economic Development Council
Since 2002 the San Diego North Economic Development Council has been strengthening North County’s economy by marketing the region for inward investment, working with existing employers to retain their presence in our community and connecting employers and educators to strengthen our workforce pipeline. A public-private partnership, the council’s work is supported by 90+ investors from the private, public and non-profit sectors.
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