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Organizers of a job fair held in Weirton on Wednesday are calling the event a success and hope to be able to hold similar events in the future.

The event, held at the Weirton Millsop Community Center, was organized by the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce and Follansbee Chamber of Commerce, with support from the Workforce West Virginia Career Center.

Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce President Brenda Mull said she was glad the two chambers were able to work together to provide an opportunity for area residents who may be looking for new employment.

"It brings the counties together," Mull said. "We wanted to be able to offer something to the community."

According to Tom Jeffers, of the Workforce West Virginia Career Center, by approximately 12:30 p.m., there had been 140 people registered as attending the job fair.

Jeffers also explained there were approximately 30 businesses or training providers participating in Wednesday's event.

Potential employers were from all across the Ohio Valley and represented a variety of career fields. Some of those participating were Weirton Medical Center; Weirton Geriatric Center; Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack and Resort; Valley Ventures; Pixels and Frames; West Virginia Northern Community College and Orbit Educational.

The job fair also provided other opportunities besides the option of applying for a job.

Ed Powell, business analyst from the Small Business Development Center, was on hand to provide information on programs available to those looking to possibly start their own business.

"I've got eight good contacts," Powell said.

The event ran from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Mull said they would like to be able to offer the job fair every year, based on the reception of the event on Wednesday.

(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com)