Times Observer photo by Brian Ferry Katie Kemery (right) fields questions about her qualifications at Warren County Career Center during a mock interview with (from left) James Embry of Kersey and Associates; John Papalia of Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry; and Michelle Betts and Joe Nelson of Betts Industries.

Warren County employers and students got together Friday for some practice — and maybe some real interviews.

In a joint venture with Warren-Forest Higher Education Council, Warren County Career Center hosted dozens of top personnel from local businesses whose employment needs match career center offerings.

Employers sat down with students and conducted interviews. Most of them were mock interviews, but some of the employers have openings are the mock interviews could turn into real placements, according to Principal Jim Evers.

The possibility of lining up students for jobs was not the primary goal of the event.

“We’re so happy to have all the businesses come in to help our students improve their interview skills,” Evers said. “The interviewers give them critiques.”

“It really helped me understand what I need to say and what I really shouldn’t say,” welding student Brianna O’Brien said. “Focus on your skills and abilities that will match with that they need” and avoid too much personal information.

Some students had some nervousness.

“I treated it like it was a real interview because they’re hiring,” welding student Ashley Kuzminski said. “During my first interview, she told me I looked and sounded really comfortable, but I was fidgeting with my hands the whole time.”

She diverted enough focus to eliminate the fidgeting at her second interview.

“I learned to ask questions to show you’re interested in the company,” automotive technology student Nate Benson said. “They said to watch your wording.”

He said he got a little nervous at one point. “I tried to stay confident,” Benson said. “I treated it as if it was a regular interview.”

Marketing students Andrew Anderson and Kayla Johnson were in charge of setting up the event and making sure everything went smoothly.

Anderson said he interviewed as well as coordinated on Friday. “It was a very good learning experience,” he said. “It helped me interact with the people, the teachers, just like a typical customer.”

“It challenged me,” Anderson said. “It helps us better prepare for the world. Thanks to the teachers and the staff and the people we brought in for giving us an opportunity to unlock our full potential.”

Not every shop had seniors in attendance on Friday, so some shops that were invited did not make appearances. Those that did were: Betts Industries; Crossett Inc.; Warren County Visitors Bureau; Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry; Warren County School District; Ace Hardware; CareerLink; PennDOT; Kersey and Associates; City of Warren Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Warren County jail; Superior Tire; Rams Engine; Hampton Inn; Control Chief; and Forest Scientific.

“We are more than appreciative of all they do for us,” Anderson said. “We look forward to working with them again.”