PER THE EXPERTS. We reached out to five local professionals in the workforce sphere – from SEEK Careers and Staffing to local colleges, among others – to gain their perspectives on AI's impact on job hunting, "ghost job" listings, "doomjobbing" and more. (Photo from CVTC's socials)

2026 is proving to be a more challenging job market for local job seekers – at entry-level, mid-career and experienced – who are having to deal with the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), ghost job listings and a new concern: "doomjobbing."

Even teens across the Chippewa Valley and nationwide have found themselves competing with robots in some food service jobs that in the past were a guaranteed summer or part-time job.

So, what's a job seeker to do? We asked five local experts to share their thoughts on the current job market; most efficient and effective ways to look for and land a job right now; in-demand or future-proofed jobs, in the face of the issues of artificial intelligence; ghost jobs and more.

Here's a key to the folks we chatted with, with the initials they'll be referred to as in the Q&A:

• SM: Stephanie May, branch team lead and manufacturing recruiter of SEEK Careers and Staffing in the Eau Claire-Menomonie Area

• FB: Forrest Buck, director of career development and first-year experience, Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) in Eau Claire

• SH: Staci Heidtke, director of career services and career center, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

• BB: Bryan Barts, director of career services, University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic

• AV: Austin Vogler, president-elect of the Chippewa Valley Society for Human Resources Management (CVSHRM)

In general, how's the job market looking right now in the U.S. and the Chippewa Valley?

SM: "Fom a staffing perspective, I would describe the Spring/Summer 2026 job market as cautious, but not frozen. Employers are still hiring, but they are being more selective, moving slower, and paying closer attention to attendance, job stability, skills and long-term fit.

In the Chippewa Valley, we continue to see steady demand in manufacturing including light industrial, skilled trades, production, warehouse, maintenance, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, fabrication, welding, quality and hands-on technical roles. There has also been a decent increase for jobs that are professional/administrative in nature as well as in the information technology realm. The strongest candidates are still finding opportunities, but the days of 'apply today, start tomorrow' for every position are not as common as they were during the height of the labor shortage.

Entry-level work is tougher than it used to be. Employers still need entry-level talent, but they are often looking for reliability, willingness to learn, mechanical aptitude, transportation and good communication before they are willing to train. There is competition among entry-level employees that didn’t exist a few years ago."

FB: "At the moment, Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) students have been able to still find positions in relevant fields. We have been working hard to ensure students have the resources they need to set themselves up for success after graduation. Standing out in a saturated (or) shrinking market is important. Fields such as information technology (IT), administrative professional, business, etc. need to be adaptable and showcase how human connection is still important."

SH: "The job market has cooled nationwide as well as in the Chippewa Valley. Successful job seekers focus on the skills they have – that are needed to do the jobs they are applying for – as well as any past work experience. Entry-level workers see success in the job market by sharing their experiences as apprentices, interns and in co-ops. Up-skilling and re-skilling are important to train  on new job duties and career habits to demonstrate how your experience aligns with the role."

Events like CVTC's latest Learn Grow Lead conference, pictured, are just some of the ways to network with other professionals in your community.

BB: "The job market does show some uncertainty by employers in certain industries, who recruit University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic students. However, we continue to see active recruitment by employers using our Cooperative Education & Internship Program as a strategic talent pipeline to their entry level positions. This includes companies across the state, region and our partners in the Chippewa Valley."

AV: "Despite what people might hear in the media, the job market remains stable – especially in the Midwest and in the Chippewa Valley. Just like the pandemic in 2020 impacted industries and jobs differently, the current economic conditions – combined with fast-growing AI technologies – are doing the same. Some industries are holding off on hiring while others can’t keep up. Don’t let the statistics scare you – your ideal job may not be available right now, but you can find a job that will teach you great skills that will help you move forward."

"Don’t let the statistics scare you – your ideal job may not be available right now, but you can find a job that will teach you great skills that will help you move forward." –Austin Vogler, president-elect of the CVSHRM

What's the most efficient and effective way to look for a job right now?

SM: "The most effective job search right now is a combination of online applying and human follow-up. Apply online, but do not stop there. Call the recruiter. Stop into the staffing office. Send a short follow-up email. Answer your phone. Check your voicemail. (This means your voicemail must be set up and your voice mailbox must not be full!) Be honest about your work history, pay needs, shift availability, transportation and background. Be ready to interview quickly and start when you say you can. For manufacturing and skilled trades especially, reliability still matters. Candidates who communicate well, show up, follow through, and are realistic about what they want will stand out quickly.

FB: "For students, working with the Career Services team is still one of the best, yet most underutilized resources you could take advantage of. Platforms like Handshake, Indeed, and LinkedIn continue to be some of the most reliable and useful tools for comprehensive job searching. AI sources (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini) have capability in this area, but do require more ethical usage refinement."

SH: "Today, a successful job search is a balance of applying to posted positions and targeted networking. Spend time reviewing credible job openings (jobs recently posted and available on the company’s official career page). At the same time, tell your network (friends, family, former co-workers and supervisors) you are looking for a job. Share the types of jobs you are interested in doing and ask for referrals and information about any positions that have not been posted yet. Avoid mass-applying to several jobs online. Be intentional and tailor your resume with keywords from each job posting. Update your LinkedIn profile and connect with recruiters to help build your network with companies that are hiring. Send a short message to recruiters asking them to connect with you and follow employers you believe you would like to work for."

BB: "The most efficient and effective way to look for and land a job right now is to invest in building relationships (this means they know you, your background: experience and projects; abilities and strengths; personality and skillsets) with professionals doing the work you are interested in or adjacent to. Use all available resources to help source companies, opportunities and professionals to connect with as well as build your knowledge of the industry (current topics). Build your network before you need it and invest in your knowledge, skills and abilities that can be applied within your field. Stay active by both networking, while applying to open roles (and following up), while also leveraging online tools and maintaining your documents or portfolios, build up your interviewing skills and spend time making connections."

AV: "Mass-applying is not the way to go. When you submit multiple applications, it’s easier to not customize your application details and could easily forget which companies you applied to, which isn’t a good look when a recruiter or hiring manager does connect with you. Instead, leverage your network. If you’re a technical college or university graduate, connect with your career services department or alumni office. If you’re still in school, build those relationships now! They have a sea of connections and can help you map out your official career path and broadcast you to the right audience. Your local job center has skilled career placement professionals who are great at listening and can help you down the right path. Don’t be afraid to leverage a staffing agency – they often have a good pulse on the market, which jobs are 'hot,' and can help you get your foot in the door by presenting your information directly to an organization/hiring team. Also, be sure to check your online presence – make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and do a quick 'Google' check of yourself to make sure you’re presenting the image you want employers to see. If you have a specific company that you’d like to work for, ask around to find someone who you may know and ask for their advice (and referral) – an employee referral significantly increases your chances of an interview and getting hired."

"Build your network before you need it and invest in your knowledge, skills and abilities that can be applied within your field." –Bryan Barts, director of career services at the University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic

What jobs are most in demand right now?

SM: "Locally, the most in-demand roles we continue to see are hands-on, technical, and essential positions: light industrial/manufacturing, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, welding, fabrication, machine operation, maintenance technicians, quality technicians, forklift, warehouse, commercial driver’s license (CDL), construction-related roles and industrial leadership. I also think healthcare, skilled trades, education, human services, logistics, maintenance and technical manufacturing roles are more future-proof than people realize. Artificial intelligence (AI) may change how work is done, but it does not climb a ladder, repair a machine, fabricate steel, drive a truck, care for a patient, troubleshoot production issues, or lead a team on the floor."

FB:  "The Department of Workforce Development for our region provides a fantastic breakdown of jobs (and) career clusters that are still in high demand, what is 'future proofed,' and what the impact of AI is looking like on the workforce for today and the future."

SH: "As in past years, jobs in healthcare and the skilled trades are in high demand. Jobs in healthcare will be in even more demand in the future due to an aging population. Data scientists, cybersecurity experts and digital designers all have a faster than average job outlook. Green jobs, including solar and wind, are being created across the country. With up-skilling, many of today’s employees could transition to a role with primary responsibilities rooted in sustainability or the green economy or work that supports it. Re-training efforts are sometimes employer-supported, and other times driven by worker’s interests and drive."

BB: "In-demand jobs right now include positions across these industries: healthcare (nurses, medical assistants; physical therapists and mental health counselors/social workers; skilled trades (and) construction (HVAC, electrician, plumbers, welders, construction managers); engineering, energy (and) sustainability (wind and solar technicians, specialists); technology, information, data (AI/ML engineers, data scientist, cybersecurity, software developers). 'Future proofed' would most likely include these lists as well. AI is disrupting the workplace; our students are strongly seeking in-person conversations with career services professionals about their choices, options and how best to prepare their professional selves for the workforce."

AV: "We’re fortunate in the Chippewa Valley to have great employers doing great things. The healthcare industry is arguably the backbone of our local economy and there are many opportunities to get involved in that space. AI can’t replace 'people people' (at least not yet). Think about jobs that involve people, not technology: childcare, senior living homes, counselors, surgeons. Jobs that involve working with your hands like skilled trades: electricians, plumbers, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians or emergency services. While I personally don’t know anyone who has lost their job due to AI, organizations are adapting to AI in different ways. The key here is if you aren’t willing to learn and work with this new technology, someone who is, will likely have your job in the future. Your greatest resource when on the hunt for a job is your network. Make sure your friends, family, teachers and neighbors know that you’re looking for work – but more importantly that they know what you’re looking to do and why. Have a clear understanding of the type of work that you want to do and why you’ll be good at it."

"If you aren’t willing to learn and work with this new technology, someone who is, will likely have your job in the future. Your greatest resource when on the hunt for a job is your network." –Austin Vogler, president-elect of the CVSHRM

How has AI affected jobs and the job market?

SM: "AI is impacting the job market, but I do not believe it replaces the human side of hiring, especially in staffing and manufacturing. AI can help write resumes, screen information, and speed up communication, but it cannot replace work ethic, attendance, attitude, hands-on skills, or the ability to show up and do the job safely. One thing I see is that AI has made it easier for job seekers to apply quickly, but not always better. Candidates may submit resumes that sound polished but do not match their actual experience. That can hurt them in an interview when they cannot speak to the skills listed on their resume. For job seekers, my advice is to use AI as a tool, not a mask. A resume should still sound like the person. Be honest, specific, and ready to explain your experience. The best way to get past the 'AI wall' is still very human: call, follow up, stop in, build a relationship with a recruiter and be responsive when someone reaches out."

FB: "AI is the big topic around hiring and job searching right now. CVTC has done a great job of introducing, discussing and creating actionable outcomes around AI for our students in and out of the classroom. The impact of AI in the workforce is real and I don’t want to discount that. However, the more we do to guide students in the ethical use of AI, the more we can prepare them for this ever-changing landscape. 'Beating the Applicant Tracking System (ATS)' isn’t the core focus. Programs like Jobscan (and) SkillSyncer can assist with providing feedback on what could be flags for students when going through ATS. CVTC also recently brought on a program called 'Big Resume,' which allows students to get guided AI feedback (which is heavily guided by our own language we put in the system) on their resume as it pairs to a potential job they may be applying for. There is a section that directly reviews for ATS fit and provides feedback on what would make them a stronger candidate."

SH: "AI is changing how work is getting done, with automation replacing tasks. Skill development and retraining efforts are necessary to keep up with changing jobs. Being adaptable is essential in this job market. To get ahead in an AI world, attain and demonstrate communication, critical thinking, ethics, and problem-solving skills. The human elements of creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence matter more than ever in the workplace. To combat AI and applicant tracking systems, seek out recruiters or employers in your network to meet them in person, think job fairs or networking events, or digitally network. LinkedIn is an excellent place to build a professional network and connect with recruiters that are hiring."

BB: "The impact of AI on the job market can be seen in the percentage of entry level job requiring AI skills. We have seen a strong uptick in the number AI focused positions in our database, either by title or job descriptions that include AI skills. Also the use of ATSs to screen resumes has been used by employers for decades. ... I would point back to the importance of viewing AI as a tool and becoming familiar with its use within a field or knowledge area and intentionally building your skills to use it. AI is a tool, however, it can’t replace strategic relationship building through informational interviewing (and) meetings where you can showcase these skills and make a strong impression."

AV: "Whether you realize it or not, you’re likely using AI both at work and at home – facial recognition to unlock your phone, smart auto-correct when sending a text or email, or asking Google to turn off the lights – all of these are just basic forms of AI. New technologies come with many benefits and we’ve been able to adapt to these changes and improvements in time. AI is here and continuing to evolve every day. Learn to work with it, not against it and use it to your advantage. Anyone can look good on paper so it’s important to make sure people know you for you, not just your resume. From a recruiting and hiring perspective, optimize your resume for each job that you are applying to using keywords from the job posting itself, attend in-person career events, volunteer, network and put yourself out there."

"For job seekers, my advice is to use AI as a tool, not a mask. A resume should still sound like the person. ... The best way to get past the 'AI wall' is still very human: call, follow up, stop in, build a relationship with a recruiter and be responsive when someone reaches out." –Stephanie May, branch team lead and manufacturing recruiter with SEEK Careers and Staffing in Eau Claire-Menomonie Area

How can employees prepare for 'ghost jobs' when they appear in job postings?

SM: "Yes, job seekers are frustrated by jobs that appear to be open but may not be actively hiring. In staffing, we are in a little different position because our jobs are usually tied to active client needs, but candidates still come to us after applying to multiple jobs online and never hearing anything back. Some postings may be outdated, paused, filled internally, posted to build a pipeline, or left up because hiring needs change quickly. From the job seeker side, it feels like a ghost job either way. My advice is to look for signs that a job is active: recent posting date, clear company information, specific shift/pay/location, and a real person to contact. Then follow up. A job search cannot be only clicking 'apply' online. Candidates who call, email, stop in, or work with a recruiter often get more clarity and more traction. You are a much more visible candidate when you work with a strong recruiter."

FB: "Ghost jobs have been a thorn for many students over the years. Ghost jobs fall into two categories; one being jobs that get sourced and pulled by job search engines and the other being jobs that truly don’t exist for any other purpose than collecting applicant numbers and contact information. The first category is an easier one to crack. We know platforms like Indeed are fantastic, but like any system, it isn’t perfect. Encouraging students to not 'spam apply' to positions directly on those platforms and instead find the position directly on the employer’s website can curb some of that issue. The second category is, unfortunately, a hard reality for our students to navigate. Depending on the size of the company, applicant pool numbers can show competitiveness that can then be marketed out for actual roles to try and acquire top talent. We work with students closely to try and assist them to not put their eggs all in one basket for this very reason."

SIDEBAR: A Breakdown Of Ghost Job Trends

In 2024, Darian Woods and Wailin Wong of National Public Radio (NPR) broke down defining traits of how ghost jobs appear online. An episode of "All Things Considered" noted that ghost jobs "refer to listings by employers that either aren't real or have already been filled but never lead to an actual hire."

Also known as "fake jobs" or "phantom jobs," these online listings by employers have become standard practice for many, Forbes contributor Michelle Travis shared this spring.

Travis noted, "experts estimate that over one-third of all job postings are fake. Eight in 10 employment recruiters admitted that their company posts jobs that are filled or do not exist in a 2024 survey of 753 U.S. recruiters by MyPerfectResume."

"While 18% of the recruiters said that less than 10% of their postings are for ghost jobs, 17% of the recruiters said that up to three-fourths of their job postings are fake," the article continued.

SH: "It is estimated that a quarter to a third of job openings are now fake. Ghost jobs waste time and job seekers lose confidence and time applying to them. Employers may be attempting to convey growth of a company, collect resumes to build a candidate database, or satisfy current employees who are asking for jobs to be filled. Reposted jobs and jobs that have been posted for more than a few weeks are often ghost jobs. Visit a company’s career page and apply directly on their website to try and avoid it. Network with employees of the organization to verify the job exists. Find valid jobs by networking and getting referrals from connections."

BB: "I would encourage job seekers to do research on a company prior to applying. Specifically look to LinkedIn for any professional connections to the company and engage in a conversation about your interest in the role. This can help to find out if it is in fact an actual position that is active (or) approved for hire, still open to being recruited (or) filled. Once you can do that and have certainty, then move ahead. They do exist and most often are used by employers to build a talent pool ahead of needing one, attempting to project company growth (and) stability (especially during uncertain times) and in large companies to meet any compliance needs. These tactics used by companies can cause application fatigue so job seekers should prioritize recently posted positions (less than 30 days), network alongside applying and when possible, look for roles that have a recruiter’s name or a clear hiring timeline."

AV:  "Some 'ghost jobs' are just jobs that have been scraped by too many sites and haven’t come down yet. Others are real 'ghost jobs' where individuals are potentially looking to 'borrow' your personal information. To prevent your information from getting into the wrong hands, always apply through the official website of the company you are looking to work for – you can find jobs on third party sites, but then go to the company’s actual website before you input your information. If an organization is asking you for an application fee or for unnecessary personal information, it’s likely not a valid job. If you find yourself in a virtual interview that doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to do your research and contact the company directly."

How might current and prospective employees overcome "doomjobbing"?

SM: "For someone currently employed who is doomjobbing, I would tell them to slow down and get focused. Applying to everything usually creates more anxiety, not more opportunity. Before applying, they should ask: What shift do I want (or) need? What commute is realistic? What pay do I need? What type of work do I want to do every day? What am I trying to get away from and what am I trying to move toward? A better strategy is to apply intentionally to fewer jobs, follow up and talk to real people. If someone is employed, they have the advantage of being selective. Use that advantage. Applying to every job a company has posted makes you appear desperate. You will also be perceived as someone who is not a serious job seeker."

FB: "Doomjobbing is an interesting thing happening right now and it’s the direct impact of the current job market being difficult right now. We have always taught students 'even if you don’t match everything they are looking for, still apply.' This is because this for the most part is still very true! However, when you start applying for positions out of your field, where you potentially match only a handful of areas of what is being asked, you’re setting yourself up to fail. My recommendation for currently employed folks that may be looking for a change would be to be genuinely and authentically curious but be realistic."

SIDEBAR: So What Is Doomjobbing?

Senior contributor at Forbes, Bryan Robinson, writes "'Doomjobbing' is the career version of doomscrolling — new workplace slang that describes when job seekers are scrolling through seemingly endless job listings to try to find a new position."

"This can be because they are out of work or because they want to leave their current role and are seeking a new job that better fits their needs," a recent article states.

According to Monster Jobs Search – an online resource for job searching, resume building, and employment solutions – shared new data on doomjobbing from a spring 2026 survey.

The Monster survey revealed the following takeaways:

• Doomjobbing is widespread: 42% of job seekers apply to four or more jobs per search session.
• Minimal time is spent reviewing roles: 32% of job seekers spend one minute or less reviewing a job posting before applying.
• Candidates skip key details: 48% admit they apply to jobs without reading the full job description.
• Volume is a core strategy: 47% balance quantity and fit, 32% focus on strong matches, and 21% prioritize applying to as many roles as possible.

SH: "Job seekers should pause before applying to everything they see, especially if they are not qualified for the positions. Narrow your search to jobs you have some of the qualifications for and would enjoy doing. Resist hitting the easy apply button and instead tailor your resume and references to the position. Think of quality over quantity. If you are unsure what jobs to apply for, ask for some help."

BB: "My recommendation is stabilize your current job (or) role situation to help protect your reputation and future references (and) relationships. Then assess where the root cause of your dissatisfaction lies (mismatched role, culture, manager, pay or exhaustion) and what can be fixed or not, what won’t change and what does 'better' look like. If determined that leaving is best, then create a 90-day exit plan. Then start a strategic, focused search as that will yield a better outcome, less wasted time and stronger alignment to your career direction."

AV: "Doomjobbing is perhaps one of the main reasons that employers are implementing various AI filtering technologies – as a human resources leader, receiving an application from someone who has no relevant experience (or potentially no interest in actually joining your organization or doing the work needed) is frustrating. Avoid doomjobbing and be intentional. Before you start your job search, think about the type of work that gets you excited and the skills that you have that will help you be successful in that field/industry, pull up some job postings and see what attributes or skills you might need more exposure to and work on a plan to develop yourself. Then identify the organizations that you want to work for and follow them on social media, sign up for their newsletter if they have one, and find a way to get involved as a customer or volunteer. The more you know about the type of people that are successful at your desired company, the better you will be prepared for your interview."

Anything else to consider or you would like to add?

SM: "The biggest thing I would add is that the local job market is not bad, but it is more competitive and more selective than it was a few years ago. Employers still need people, but they want the right people. For job seekers, this is the time to be honest, prepared, responsive, and coachable. You do not need to be perfect. You do need to be clear about what you want, realistic about your skills and willing to follow through. For employers, speed still matters. Good candidates do not stay available forever. Do not drag out your hiring process for weeks or months unnecessarily. Even in a more cautious market, the companies that communicate clearly, move efficiently and treat candidates well will have the advantage."

BB: "University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic Career Services will be opening up registration for our fall 2026 career conference in July. We will be offering six unique recruitment events from Sept. 21 through Sept. 24 including our newly created Design, Art, Entertainment, Gaming & Media event.

AV: "The most underrated career skill is being easy to work with. What people will remember about you is how they felt working with you – do you listen? Can you communicate clearly? Do you show up with solutions, not drama? Your reputation can have a significant impact on your career – make sure you’re building the reputation you want to be known for – practice self-awareness and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way."

In search for more tips, local trends and employment opportunities in the Chippewa Valley? Access Volume One's complete collection of articles and interviews through "Where The Jobs Are" webpage online.