National Job Fair reports on-the-spot hires as more than 40 companies take part

The Government of St. Maarten and the National Employment Services Center held the third National Job Fair 2026 at Aleeze Convention Center on Thursday. The People’s Tribune reported that officials said more than 40 companies took part, employers conducted interviews and some applicants were hired on site.

Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina told the newspaper that more than 800 vacancies were available across sectors. Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Melissa Gumbs said more than 900 job seekers had registered, while the NESC portal showed more than 800 registered candidates around the time of the fair, according to The People’s Tribune.

Head of Labor Affairs Peggy-Ann Richardson told The People’s Tribune that each job seeker leaving the event completed a survey and received a form recording the employers and vacancies that interested them. A consultancy firm was also collecting data. Richardson said the system was introduced to improve follow-up after the 2024 fair, when organisers were unable to track applicants after their initial contacts with employers.

The newspaper reported that participating bodies included the Coast Guard, Police Force, Courthouse, Public Prosecutor’s Office, NV GEBE and SOAB, which had vacancies linked to Government recruitment, including VROMI.