Justice Career Fair marks a milestone at UofGH

Attendees talk in front of a large video screen

For 14 years, the Association of Black Law Enforcers (ABLE), has helped University of Guelph-Humber forge key connections with the broader law enforcement community in Canada through the annual Justice Career Fair.

This year’s event, held Jan. 18 and organized by UofGH's Career Services, not only celebrated the strong partnership between the two but also marked the 25th anniversary of ABLE.

"Providing students the opportunity to speak directly to members of the law enforcement and emergency services field is invaluable," said Career Services Coordinator Allison Scully. "Students were able to learn about the recruitment process, preparing to be a strong candidate and potential job opportunities."

“The Justice Career Fair is much more than just a career fair,” added Justice Studies Program Head Dr. Gary Ellis. “It’s a celebration of the relationship and great service ABLE offers to our students and the community.”

Since its inception in 1992, the Association of Black Law Enforcers, a non-profit organization, has addressed the needs and concerns of Black and other racial minority groups through advocacy and outreach. Its members include police officers, correctional and parole officers, border security personnel as well as others from a host of related agencies.

By co-hosting the Justice Career Fair at the University of Guelph-Humber, ABLE has helped students discover new pathways to their careers. The event also offers students employment options by broadening their perspective and connecting them to different groups within the “complex justice web,” Dr. Ellis pointed out.

“We are very proud of our relationships with the University of Guelph-Humber and the various justice-based organizations in the community,” said Kenton Chance, ABLE President. “Bringing our partners and students together in a collective forum generates awareness for the industry and enables employers and students to have constructive conversations about the overall workforce and opportunities within it.”

The Justice Career Fair at the University of Guelph-Humber is one of the largest of its kind in Ontario primarily because of the number of exhibitors it attracts.

This year, 23 prospective employers from several law enforcement agencies, municipalities and other organizations were on-hand to answer questions and interact with students. At the career and networking event, students explored their post-graduation career options and gained insights into the workings of the institutions.