Orland Park, IL (January 27, 2026) – The third annual Southwest Job Fair, held Jan. 15 at the Tinley Park Convention Center, drew more than 1,600 job seekers and more than 100 employers from across the region, marking a 400-person increase over 2025. The event continued its mission of connecting talented individuals with meaningful employment opportunities throughout the southwest suburbs.

“I’m incredibly proud of the continued growth and success of the Southwest Job Fair,” Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge said. “Year after year, this event has demonstrated the power of collaboration in strengthening our local workforce. It’s rewarding to see employers and job seekers making real connections that lead to lasting careers.”

Attendees submitted resumes, participated in on-the-spot interviews and explored a wide range of career paths across industries including manufacturing, education, food and hospitality, finance and health care.

Government agencies in attendance included the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, the Forest Preserves of Cook County, and multiple municipal and county departments. Law enforcement representation included the Chicago Police Department, Tinley Park Police Department and the Illinois State Police, along with federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

“The strong turnout and engagement at this year’s job fair shows just how vital this event is to our communities,” Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison said. “We are proud to partner with Orland Township and the villages of Orland Park and Tinley Park to provide a forum where employers can find qualified candidates and residents can take meaningful steps toward their next career.”

In addition to meeting with employers, attendees participated in free mock interview workshops, received professional headshots and met one-on-one with HR professionals. These services provided guidance on interview strategies, resume improvement and career development.

All participants were entered into a raffle that included 15 backpacks, 15 $25 gas cards, 100 $10 gift cards and four Chromebook laptops.

“People looking for work should be able to find it, and we’re extremely proud to be able to provide that opportunity to the entire southwest region,” Tinley Park Mayor Michael Glotz said. “Job sites and want ads are great, but nothing can take the place of the very important personal connection between employers and jobseekers that job fairs like this provide.”

The Village of Orland Park, Village of Tinley Park, Orland Township and the Office of Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison thanked the Tinley Park Convention Center for hosting the event, as well as All Seasons Pools and Spas and Voortman for their sponsorship and support.

“The success of this year’s job fair motivates us to keep raising the bar,” Orland Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady said. “As we look ahead to 2027, our focus is on expanding access, attracting even more employers and continuing to create opportunities that help residents build stable, rewarding careers close to home.”

Planning is underway for the 2027 Southwest Job Fair. For updates on future events, visit SWJobFair.com.

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