The annual Cambria County Job fair connected dozens of job-seekers with more than 80 companies and 900 job openings.

The job fair was held Tuesday at the Frank Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown.

Chairperson Debi Balog said the large turnout was a good sign.

“Our economy is picking up to a certain extent.. Recruitment is up significantly and displacements are down,” said Balog who is also the director of workforce development for Johnstown Area Regional Industries (JARI).

The jobs were for all ages and backgrounds. The fields with the most openings included manufacturing, healthcare and education.

“I did apply for quit a few of them, so hopefully it will work out,” said Janet Sanders, a job-seeker looking for openings in the healthcare industry.

“This is the first job fair I actually ever went to, in general. It’s very unique. Lots of people. I’m very anxious,” said Donovan Kinsy, who was looking for a job in construction or welding. “It’s a good way to go and get applications and better yourself.”

This year, job fair organizers focused on helping people with barriers find work, including those with criminal histories.

“We’re doing a lot more than we’ve ever done in the past with individuals that have those types of barriers,” said Balog. “We’re making sure we include our veteran population or individuals with physical disabilities. But again, our goal here is to serve all populations.”

A list of the jobs and openings at the fair will be posted on the JARI website.