Engineering students had an opportunity to learn more about potential employers Tuesday when the largest indoor career fair in the nation was held at Iowa State. About 265 companies took part in the annual career fair that drew in about 5,000 students, said Brad Matt, general co-chair for Engineer’s Week. The fair was from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Hilton Coliseum and the Scheman Center. Iowa Lt. Gov. Sally Pederson kicked off the career fair, which was held in conjunction with Engineer’s Week, Matt said. “Pederson stressed to students that when looking for a job to pay attention to Iowa companies and to stay in Iowa,” said Matt, senior in mechanical engineering. “A goal of the governor and lieutenant governor is to keep students in Iowa.” Career Fair Co-Chair Valerie Demean said the event is a good opportunity for students. “The fair gives Iowa State students the opportunity to meet employers and look around at the jobs available,” said Demean, junior in industrial engineering. “We want to give students experience while in school so they can perform outside of school.” Mitch McGinty, senior in aerospace engineering, participated in the career fair and said he liked how it was organized and run. “I like how all the employers are together in one space, and Hilton is the largest space on campus,” McGinty said. “There are so many companies here, which is an advantage to someone looking for a job or internship.” Mike Ungerman, sophomore in electrical engineering, is doing a co-op with Cedar River Paper company in Cedar Rapids. He was at the fair recruiting people while he attends Iowa State. “It’s important to get some job experience before graduation,” he said. “Experience makes you more marketable after graduation. It also allows you to see how what you are learning in class is applied to work.” Matt said he encourages all students, no matter what year, to start looking and becoming involved. “Even freshmen should come,” he said. “It’s an eye opener for the students and the companies about what to expect in the future.”