By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
More than 75 exhibitors gathered Wednesday at the Bossier Civic Center as hundreds of job seekers attended the 2026 NWLA Career and Job Fair in Bossier City.
Hosted by the Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Louisiana Works, along with community partners, the two-day event focused on connecting local residents — particularly military-connected individuals — with meaningful employment opportunities across Northwest Louisiana.
Day one, held March 3, centered on career readiness, offering resume assistance, interview preparation and workforce resources. Day two, March 4, featured the main job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where employers staffed booths, collected resumes and, in many cases, conducted on-site interviews.
Organizers reported that more than 200 jobs were actively being recruited at the event, spanning industries including healthcare, manufacturing, education, public safety, hospitality and skilled trades.
“There are thousands of veterans, military spouses and transitioning military members in our community that are looking for gainful employment,” said Lisa Johnson, President and CEO of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce. “At the Bossier Chamber, we are glad that we can partner with other organizations in our community to host a job fair every year specifically for the military-connected individuals in our community.”
With Barksdale Air Force Base nearby, regional leaders said supporting veterans and military families remains a top priority. Many participating employers highlighted career pathways tailored to individuals transitioning from military service to civilian careers.
Throughout the afternoon, job seekers moved from booth to booth, speaking directly with hiring managers and recruiters. Several companies indicated they were prepared to make hiring decisions quickly as workforce demand remains strong in the region.
Organizers said the annual event continues to grow, reflecting both employer demand for skilled workers and the community’s commitment to workforce development. They added that partnerships between local businesses, workforce agencies and economic development groups remain critical to keeping talent in Northwest Louisiana and connecting residents to long-term career opportunities.