Building Careers and Sustainability: MI2 at IdeaFestBG and Elizabethtown Job Fair

Workforce development is front and center in Kentucky as local leaders rally together to support stability, opportunity, and long-term growth across the region. In response to recent workforce shifts, our Member Engagement Manager, Jerilyn Bristow, participated in two job fairs focused on connecting skilled professionals with meaningful careers in the metals industry. A core part of Jerilyn’s work is ensuring our members have access to a strong, sustainable talent pipeline—aligning employer needs with qualified candidates and promoting the wide range of opportunities available in metals, from advanced manufacturing and operations to logistics and leadership roles.

That same commitment to workforce awareness and education was on display at IdeaFestival Bowling Green, where Laura Haury, MI2’s Sustainability Project Coordinator, joined Jerilyn to spotlight metals recycling and industry career pathways. Together, they highlighted the impact of the One Million Recycling Program, MI2’s growing partnership with the Recycling Society, and the importance of building early awareness around sustainability and circular economy practices. A standout feature of their outreach included sharing Recycling Is Magic, a children’s book designed to introduce young learners to the power and potential of recycling in a fun, accessible way.

By showing up at job fairs and innovation events alike, our team is not only supporting immediate hiring needs but also investing in long-term workforce education and environmental stewardship. Together, these efforts reflect a shared commitment to opportunity, innovation, and building a more resilient future for Kentucky communities and the metals industry.

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