The University of Kentucky Ag Equine Programs will host its ninth annual UK Equine Career and Opportunity Fair from 4:30 to 7 p.m. EST March 7 at Spindletop Hall in Lexington.

The free event provides college students with the chance to meet prospective equine industry employers and to learn about potential volunteer, internship and part-time and full-time employment opportunities. In addition to booths from area equine businesses, attendees can participate in sessions led by industry professionals, who will offer tips and one-on-one career advice.

“This is such a great event. It benefits the equine industry by putting businesses and organizations into contact with students and potential employees. It benefits students by exposing them to so many opportunities. And it benefits the equine event planning class by giving students hands-on event planning experience,” said Elizabeth James, lecturer and internship coordinator in UK’s equine science and management undergraduate degree program. “Every year the class and the event just keep getting better.”

Paige Schanke, an equine science and management senior, is helping to plan the event.

“I chose to take equine event planning with Mrs. James, because I view it as a very valuable course. Mrs. James instills in us the skills it takes to become a successful event planner and event participant. I am looking forward to seeing our class' dedication and hard work come together to make this year's Career and Opportunity Fair the best yet,” she said.

Informational sessions will allow participants to explore opportunities related to veterinary professions, the Thoroughbred industry, feed sales/nutrition, marketing/communications and graduate school. A shuttle service to and from campus will also be available for UK students.

Some of the confirmed participants include Bourbon Lane Stable, Camp Thunderbird, Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, Godolphin Flying Start, Gollenhon Quarter Horses, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, KBC Horse Supplies, League of Agriculture and Equine Centers, Park Equine Hospital, Keeneland, Kentucky Equine Education Project, Kentucky Equine Humane Center, Kentucky Equine Research, Kentucky Equine Management Internship, Kentucky Horse Council, Kentucky Horse Park, Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center, Miramonte Equine, New Vocations, Neogen, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Split Rock Jumping Tour and Spy Coast Farm.

Students and potential employers who would like more information about the UK Equine Career and Opportunity Fair may contact James at 859-257-2226 or email equine@uky.edu. There is also an event Facebook page, University of Kentucky Equine Career Fair, which provides up-to-date information. For more information about UK Ag Equine Programs, visit http://www2.ca.uky.edu/equine/.

UK Ag Equine Programs is part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.