There’s a new way to celebrate the season of love this February — by showing your appreciation for the businesses and opportunities which make Santa Maria special.
On Thursday, Feb. 13, Santa Maria’s annual Business Expo & Job Fair will bring the community together at the Santa Maria Fairpark for an event that’s all about connection, growth and local pride. With its festive “I Love Santa Maria” theme, the expo is the perfect chance to explore career opportunities, discover local businesses and celebrate the spirit of our community.
This year’s event is again a partnership between the Santa Maria Valley Chamber and Santa Barbara County Workforce Development Board. The job fair element of this year’s expo provides a unique opportunity for job seekers to connect directly with local employers who are eager to meet and hire talented individuals.
In an age when so much of the hiring process happens online, this event provides a chance to have real conversations with potential employers, ask questions, and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re just starting out, exploring a new career path, or ready for your next big move, this is a rare opportunity to take your job search to the next level.
The 2025 Business Expo & Job Fair isn’t just for job seekers; it is also a celebration of Santa Maria’s entrepreneurial spirit, with local businesses showcasing their products and services. It’s the perfect chance to discover the creativity, innovation and hard work which drive our local economy. From established companies to up-and-coming startups, the range of businesses represented will highlight the diversity and strength of Santa Maria’s business community.
The “I Love Santa Maria” theme ties everything together with a sense of fun and local pride, creating an atmosphere that feels both festive and meaningful. Valentine’s Day is traditionally a time to celebrate the people and things we hold dear, and this event is a reminder that our community and local businesses deserve that same recognition. It’s an opportunity to connect with and show your support for the businesses which keep Santa Maria thriving.
Whether you’re seeking a new career, curious about what local businesses have to offer, or simply looking for a way to get more involved in the community, the expo has something for everyone.
The best part? Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. The 2025 Business Expo & Job Fair takes place on Feb. 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Santa Maria Fairpark
Mark your calendar, invite your friends and family, and come celebrate what makes Santa Maria such a vibrant and welcoming community. Let’s make this Valentine’s season about more than chocolates and flowers — let’s show some love for the businesses, opportunities, and people that keep Santa Maria strong. See you there!
Molly Alves is Vice President of Operations and Membership at the Santa Maria Valley Chamber, and oversees the organization’s daily operations, membership, and workforce development programs.
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