HINESVILLE, GA – September 11, 2025 – The Liberty County Development Authority (LCDA), along with community and regional partners, successfully hosted the Liberty County Job Fair on Wednesday, September 10.
Efforts to organize this Job Fair began immediately upon the announcement of the closing of DS Smith/International Paper in Riceboro on August 21, less than three weeks before the event.
The Job Fair was open to all job seekers but was hosted at the Riceboro Youth Center because of its convenient location across from Interstate Paper Road, directly adjacent to the mill. This site was chosen to make it as effortless as possible for transitioning employees to attend during shift changes and to maximize their access to successful job transition opportunities.
The event drew 276 job seekers, providing employers direct access to a seasoned, highly skilled, and motivated workforce.
Feedback collected through an anonymous survey of attendees highlighted the positive impact of the event, underscoring the community’s commitment to supporting the workforce in transition and ensuring residents have access to strong employment opportunities, with comments such as:
- “I thank the community for sponsoring this event and giving the people an open opportunity for employment.”
- “I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
- “Nice to see people concerned to help us get back employed at a good employer.”
- “It was fun to meet face to face, much better than online.”
- “Very welcoming for a newly unemployed individual, thank you!”
Participating employers represented a diverse cross-section of industries, including manufacturing, construction, logistics, energy, defense, corrections, and public safety. Companies such as SNF Holding Company, Georgia Ports Authority, Georgia Power, Hyundai MGMA, Colonial Group, EnviroVac Holdings, U.S. Sugar Savannah Refinery, and Western Power Sports were joined by leading contractors, unions, government entities, and service providers.
Resource organizations including Savannah Technical College, Regional Industry Support Enterprise (RISE), WorkSource Coastal, WorkSource Georgia/Technical College System of Georgia, Goodwill Industries, and Georgia Southern University’s Business Innovation Group were also on-site, supporting both job seekers and employers with workforce development services.
“This event demonstrates the quality and resilience of Liberty County’s workforce,” said LCDA Vice President Malissa MacKay. “Employers were able to connect with skilled candidates who are disciplined, experienced, and eager to remain part of the regional economy. It highlights Liberty County’s competitive advantage as a hub for industry and workforce strength.”
The Liberty County Job Fair was made possible through collaboration with DS Smith/International Paper, City of Riceboro, Chick-fil-A Hinesville, Liberty County, Liberty County Recreation Department, Liberty County Chamber, RISE (Regional Industry Support Enterprise), Savannah Technical College, WorkSource Coastal, and WorkSource Georgia.
Media Contact:
Katie Dye
Director of Marketing & Communications
Liberty County Development Authority
(912) 655-3081
katie.dye@comegrow.global
