Second Chance Job Fair – Birmingham Alabama Job Fair

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is hosting its inaugural Next Step Job and Resource Fair, a unique event designed to provide comprehensive career and life advancement opportunities. This free, public fair offers immediate access to employers, educational programs, and vital community resources, all under one roof at UAB’s Tower Building. It’s an ideal opportunity for adults of all backgrounds seeking a fresh start or a new career path.

Event Details

  • Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. CST
  • Location: UAB Tower Building, 530 Beacon Parkway West, Birmingham, AL 35209
  • Event Type: In-person
  • Organizer: UAB Educational Opportunity Center & UAB Community Corrections
  • Admission: Free

Job Opportunities & Participating Companies

This fair connects attendees with a diverse mix of employers, educational institutions, and community service providers. The focus is on creating pathways to success through direct employment, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and continued education.

  • Expected Companies & Organizations: Dozens of employers and resource providers
  • Industries Represented: Healthcare, public safety, transit, hospitality, property management, construction, barbering, and community services
  • Job Levels: Entry-level, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and professional positions
  • Geographic Scope: Primarily the Greater Birmingham area with regional opportunities

Featured Employers & Resources

Confirmed participants include a strong representation from UAB departments, local businesses, and essential community alliances. This blend offers both immediate job prospects and long-term support services.

  • UAB Human Resources: Explore various staff and professional roles within the university system.
  • UAB Police: Learn about public safety career opportunities.
  • Max Transit: Discover positions in public transportation.
  • Waffle House & Hart Seil Management Services: Find opportunities in hospitality and property management.
  • Brown Beauty Barber School & Mechanical Craft Training Institute: Inquire about skilled trade certifications and apprenticeships.
  • Jefferson State Community College: Explore certificate and degree programs.
  • Birmingham Reentry Alliance, Hope Inspired Ministries, & Greater Birmingham Ministries: Access critical support services for housing, career coaching, and reentry resources.

How to Participate

Attendance Information:

  1. No pre-registration is required—this is a walk-in event open to all.
  2. Bring multiple copies of your resume and any relevant certifications or portfolio materials.
  3. Prepare to speak with employers and resource providers about your background, skills, and goals.

Registration Details:

  • Registration: Not required
  • Cost: Free
  • Who Can Attend: Open to the public; all adults seeking jobs, education, or community resources are encouraged to attend.
  • What to Bring: Resumes, identification, a notepad, and a list of questions for employers.

Event Features & Services

  • Networking Opportunities: Direct, face-to-face conversations with hiring managers and program representatives.
  • On-site Services: Beyond job opportunities, access expungement workshops and consultations to aid those with criminal records.
  • Industry Partnerships: Collaboration between UAB, community colleges, trade schools, and local employers creates a pipeline of opportunities.
  • Comprehensive Resources: A holistic approach offering help with GED programs, FAFSA, scholarships, career exploration, and public assistance referrals.

Target Audience & Opportunities

This event is specifically designed for adults at various life stages, including career changers, those seeking to complete their education, individuals looking to enter skilled trades, and people pursuing a second chance. The fair emphasizes that age and background are not barriers, and it provides tailored resources to help every attendee carve their own path to success.

Location & Accessibility

The event will be held at the UAB Tower Building in Birmingham. The venue is easily accessible within the UAB campus footprint. Attendees should plan for parking near the 530 Beacon Parkway West address. The event’s central Birmingham location makes it convenient for residents from across the city and surrounding Jefferson County area.

Important Information

  • Admission: Free and open to the public. You do not need to be a UAB student to attend.
  • Professional Dress: Business casual attire is recommended to make a positive impression on employers.
  • Preparation Tips: Research the listed participating organizations beforehand to prioritize your time and prepare specific questions.
  • Contact Information: For questions, email Rico Drakes, Director of the UAB Educational Opportunity Center, at rdrakes@uab.edu.
  • Future Events: As this is the inaugural event, follow the UAB Educational Opportunity Center for announcements on potential future fairs.

About the Organizer

The UAB Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is a community-focused program dedicated to helping adults navigate pathways to higher education and career training. The EOC provides free services including college admissions assistance, GED preparation, FAFSA help, career counseling, and mentoring. In partnership with UAB Community Corrections for this event, the EOC reinforces its mission as “a place of second chances,” actively working to remove barriers and connect individuals with the resources needed to achieve their personal and professional goals.

More Recent Opportunities 👇