The Lake Charles Civic Center parking lot filled fast Tuesday. The draw was men and women of all ages and skill levels looking for work — and employers looking to fill open positions.

The Region V American Job Center was hosting its Quarterly Job Fair, and one of the Workforce Commission staffers said it was the largest crowd of job seekers and employees she has seen this past year.

The event was a joint effort between the Job Center, Workforce Commission, city of Lake Charles and the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury.

More than 50 employers registered. Among them were professional groups, government agencies, casinos, hospitals, educational institutions, construction companies and transportation industries.

Amazon representatives were there – in person – and willing to shed light on the $25 work-at-home positions that show up on social media sites.

“If you want to join the Amazon team, go to Amazon’s website,” the representative said, giving out cards that indicated part-time and full-time jobs start at $15.

One booth was for employers to learn about the training and certification that some local prisoners receive prior to their release. Employers who promote second chance hiring found that individuals with a criminal record were less likely to quit, generating cost savings. In addition to providing the skill set an employer might be looking for, the Return for Good program has financial benefits such as paying up to $6,000 of federal payroll tax on qualified employees. Fidelity Bonding provides up to $25,000 for at-risk employees, including those considered justice-involved.

Shane Edwards attended the job fair with his wife, who initiated the visit to explore job opportunities. Edwards is retired, but said he might get back out in the workforce part time in the oil and gas industry. He was in field services for 25 years.

Diana Carter is ready to get back to work now that she has healed from an injury.

“I love working with people, encouraging people, helping people,” she said. “I’m looking for a receptionist type role.”

Twenty-five-year-old Caleb Odom drove in from Oakdale and hit the jackpot in a manner of speaking. He was looking for a job in law enforcement, a career well represented at the job fair.