More than 300 prospective employees came out to the Department of Human Resources JOBS Fair on Wednesday.

More than 30 companies, schools and other employers looking to hire participated, including International Paper, Vaughan Regional Medical Center, Selma Police Department and Concordia College Alabama.

Turnout for this year’s job fair was among the largest DHR Director Wanda Goodwin has seen in more than 25 years.

“When we started at 9 a.m., the place was already packed. It has been very successful and given opportunities to see what the city has available,” Goodwin said. “There are many citizens that really want to work.”

In addition to potential jobs, those who attended could learn about colleges and universities and get tips on interviewing, resume writing and networking.

Christy Smith specializes in employee health at Vaughan Regional Medical Center and said she talked to at least 100 people at the fair that were interested in healthcare.

“I came here today for recruitment. It is good for our community. Especially to have the variation of jobs represented here and give people this opportunity,” Smith said. “I think it’s awesome for our economy.”

Darian Stitten is looking for work and hopes the career fair will boost his chances of landing a job.

“I’m looking for work, work and more work. I want to see what is available around Selma. I’m glad DHR decided to put a job fair together,” Stitten said.

“People in the community don’t really know who is hiring if they can’t look online; this way people can see all jobs that are available at once.”