Event Aims to Strengthen and Diversify the Pipeline of Essential Healthcare Workers Amid Ongoing Workforce Shortages
Philadelphia, PA (July 24, 2025) — Orleans Technical College (OTC), a program of JEVS Human Services (JEVS), hosted a hiring fair focused on healthcare and building trades employers at its Northeast Philadelphia campus. This marks the college’s first job fair to include healthcare career opportunities, since the expansion of programming to address the ongoing shortage of healthcare workers. More than 40 employers and 350 job seekers attended the event, including representatives from SEPTA, the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, and PHMC.
The event was made possible through generous grant funding from the City of Philadelphia Department of Commerce, whose collaboration with OTC helps to connect job seekers with more than 50 employers looking to fill in-demand positions.
“JEVS Human Services is proud to bring together hundreds of job seekers and employers in a way that supports the success and the growth of our local workforce,” said Cynthia Figueroa, President & CEO of JEVS Human Services. “This hiring fair reflects our commitment to tackling today’s challenges by offering solutions—and creating meaningful opportunities for job seekers. Orleans Technical College has prepared countless individuals through hands-on training for high-demand careers, and that impact is only possible because of our strong partnerships with employers and community stakeholders.”
“At JEVS and Orleans Technical College, we’re continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of today’s workforce and economy,” said Waleska Maldonado, Chief Program Officer, JEVS Human Services. “This hiring fair reflects our mission to connect individuals with meaningful job opportunities and open doors to sustainable career pathways in healthcare and the trades. We’re proud to be part of a solution that drives economic mobility for Philadelphia residents.”
“Orleans Technical College continues to be a vital partner in expanding access to quality jobs for Philadelphians,” said Karen Fegely, Acting Commerce Director, City of Philadelphia. “We are proud to support this impactful hiring fair which connects residents to in-demand careers in healthcare and the skilled trades. The Parker Administration is laser-focused on quality jobs that offer family-sustaining wages, benefits, and a path to economic mobility. Public-private partnerships like this are essential to advancing inclusive economic growth and strengthening our city’s workforce.”
With Philadelphia facing an annual projected shortfall of more than 20,000 healthcare professionals and a pressing demand for skilled trades workers, bridging the gap between employers and qualified candidates is more important than ever.
Orleans Technical College is training skilled tradespeople through programs including Air Conditioning Refrigeration & Heating, Building Maintenance, Carpentry, Plumbing & Heating, Residential & Commercial Electricity, Associate Degree in Construction Management, Clinical Medical Assistant, and Practical Nursing. The college continues to build strong relationships with local employers, serving as a resource—for not only students and graduates, but also the broader Philadelphia community.
