CTA and City Partners to Host Major Fall 2026 Career Fair at Kennedy-King College (Chicago, IL) — The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), in collaboration with multiple local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector employers, is gearing up to host the Fall 2026 Citywide Career Fair. Scheduled for Wednesday, September 30, the event will take place at Kennedy-King College on Chicago’s South Side and aims to connect hundreds of local job seekers with immediate employment opportunities across a wide spectrum of industries.
With more than 60 employers and resource agencies expected to attend, the fair represents thousands of available jobs in fields such as transportation, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, security, retail, education, banking, and government. Organizers emphasize that this is not merely an informational event; several participating employers plan to conduct on-site interviews and may even extend conditional job offers to qualified candidates on the spot.
“CTA’s role in Chicago extends beyond providing public transit services—we help connect people to opportunity,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “A strong transit system and a strong workforce go hand-in-hand with a strong city. This career fair brings employers and talented job seekers together, creating pathways to good careers, greater economic opportunity, and a stronger future for Chicago and the communities we serve.”
The initiative arrives as local leaders look to bolster neighborhood economies and support families navigating a shifting economic landscape. City Clerk Anna Valencia highlighted the fair’s potential to create lasting mobility for residents. “Chicago residents are looking for a break, and at a time when families are facing challenges nationally and here at home, we’re willing to be the leaders who open doors to opportunity and connect our neighborhoods with meaningful careers,” Valencia said. “This citywide career fair is about helping people find not just a job, but their passion—unlocking the talent that already exists in our communities.”
The event is the result of a massive collaborative effort across the public and private sectors. Participating organizations include the CTA, the Office of the Chicago City Clerk, City Colleges of Chicago, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), Skills for Chicagoland’s Future, the Illinois Tollway, Pace Suburban Bus, and the Chicago Police Department, among others.
“This job fair represents what we can achieve when we work collaboratively with public agencies, the private sector, and community organizations, coming together with a shared purpose,” noted COPA Chief Lakenya White, adding that the ultimate goal is to ensure opportunity remains accessible, inclusive, and impactful for all Chicagoans.
Karin M. Norington-Reaves, President and CEO of Cara Collective, stressed the critical importance of these partnerships in assisting those who are overcoming significant employment barriers. “By working alongside City Clerk Anna Valencia, the Clerk’s Office, and other community organizations, we can help ensure that all job seekers, including those overcoming significant challenges, have access to employers, resources, and connections that help change the trajectory of their lives.”
The Fall 2026 Citywide Career Fair will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. inside the U-Building at Kennedy-King College, located at 740 W. 63rd St.
Attendees will have the chance to network directly with hiring managers and explore various career pathways. Job seekers are strongly encouraged to review the current list of participating employers at www.chicityclerk.com/citywidecareerfair and apply for open positions in advance to maximize their chances of securing a formal interview during the event.
While pre-registration is available online for attendees, it is not required for entry. For those needing assistance with resumes or interview preparation ahead of the fair, organizers recommend visiting a local neighborhood American Job Center. Additionally, local Chicago Public Library branches are available to provide free Wi-Fi and computer access for individuals needing to complete online applications prior to Wednesday’s event.
CTA and City Partners to Host Major Fall 2026 Career Fair at Kennedy-King College
