At the January 14 Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce meeting, board treasurer Tony Pinks served as emcee and welcomed new member Jazzercize Bluffton, a franchise owned by Chase Eikenbary. (See Bluffton Jazzercize relocation to BFR.) The meeting also included chamber business, breakfast served by the Dough Hook Meat Market and a program by Ohio Means Jobs Allen County.

Pinks noted that the chamber is still taking applications for Chamber CEO, a part-time position. Inquiries can be sent to [email protected].

The program was provided by Josh Luke, Business Services Coordinator, who noted that OMJ-Allen County is currently serving more than 640 businesses with job postings, recruitment, hiring events, and marketing. Services are free and programs include reimbursement of costs including employee training.

Luke explained that–perhaps contrary to expectations–job opportunities promoted by OMJ-Allen County are in all industries. Some 35% of the job listings are for positions paying over $50,000/year.

Regarding job seekers, Luke noted that the majority of job seekers served are currently employed. He noted that in addition to the impact of COVID on staffing, retirements and population decline will continue to affect employers.

In Bluffton, OMJ-Allen County career consultants provide services at Bluffton HIgh School and Bluffton University. Tessa Laing works with students at the high school twice a month; Brendan Moorehead works at the university twice a week. The OMJ-Allen County staff is listed at https://ohiomeansjobs-allen-county.com/about/.