HOUGHTON — MTEC SmartZone is gearing up to host the 6th annual Return North Professional Careers Fair, presented by Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! and supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). This career fair is aimed at attracting alumni, former residents, and friends of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan back to the region. The Return North event also represents Region 1 of the state-wide Back to Michigan talent attraction group.

This U.P.-wide career fair connects jobseekers with local companies and supports the attraction and retention of qualified professionals in the area. Return North invites local professionals, as well as those looking to relocate to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, to connect with employers and learn about current job opportunities. Each event is free for job seekers and open to the community.

This year Return North will include both virtual and in-person events. The virtual career fair will take place on Thursday, November 10 from 3 to 6 p.m. Job seekers and companies interested in participating can register online by visiting return-north.com. There is a fee for businesses to participate. One week following the virtual session, a regional, in-person event will take place in Houghton, Marquette, and Sault Ste. Marie on the evening of Thursday, November 17. Any regional company registered for the virtual event may attend one in-person event at no additional cost. Both virtual and in-person events are free for all job seekers.

“Past events have attracted a wide variety of industries including engineering, technology, cybersecurity, insurance and risk management, health and human services, higher education, law enforcement, manufacturing, and more,” says Jason Mack, VP Business Development at MTEC SmartZone. “We look forward to once again providing the platform where job seekers and companies can meet and network.”

2022 Return North events are sponsored by Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!.

“Return North is a great opportunity for young, or established, professionals to bring their talents back home,” said Bill Raymond, CEO of Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! “UP Michigan Works! will help facilitate a smooth transition back to the Upper Peninsula, so people can settle in and enjoy all the amenities that a U.P. lifestyle offers, while contributing to the growth of a vibrant economy.”

You can find more information about Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! programs and services at upmichiganworks.org.