Job skills on show at expo

More than 2400 students from across Gippsland recently attended the annual JobSkills Expo at Lardner Park.
Coordinated by the Baw Baw Latrobe Local Learning and Employment Network (Baw Baw Latrobe LLEN), the expo is a major event for schools and industries in the Gippsland region.
It targets year nine and 10 students as well as other young people and helps them get exposure to employers, training and other community organisations with a presence in Baw Baw, Latrobe, South Gippsland, Bass Coast, Wellington and East Gippsland shires.
Organisers said more than 2400 Gippsland students attended to learn from 88 exhibitors about the jobs available in the region as well as the various skills and qualifications required for them. More than 400 staff and volunteers were present to ensure the smooth running of the day.
Many exhibitors had a focus on hands-on activities to show students what might be involved for them if they follow a particular career path.
Baw Baw Latrobe LLEN executive officer Lisa Price said the JobSkills Expo aimed to give regional youth an idea of what was available to them in the workforce. "Hopefully, days like these can 'plant a seed' in some of the area's young people's minds as to what they might like to do after finishing their education," she said.
Exhibitors across a variety of new and established industries were on hand to answer questions and provide advice to the students. Some emerging industries, allied health, emergency services, Australian Defence Force and other trades provided some very exciting and interactive displays.
TAFE Gippsland showcased their array of training courses, including community services, health studies/nursing/aged care, screen/media/visual arts, beauty, agriculture, automotive, electrical, painting and decorating, bricklaying, carpentry/cabinet making and foundation/transition studies.
The Department of Education and Latrobe Valley Authority's "My Gippsland 2035" pavilion saw a dedicated space for students who identify as female or gender diverse to be given a chance to learn more about the opportunities available to them in traditionally male dominated industries.
Sponsors of the JobSkills Expo included Baw Baw Shire and Latrobe City councils.