Students explore career pathways at JobSkills Expo
Secondary students from across Gippsland converged on Lardner Park last Tuesday for the 17th annual JobSkills Expo.
Secondary students from across Gippsland converged on Lardner Park last Tuesday for the 17th annual JobSkills Expo.
Delivered by the Baw Baw Latrobe Local Learning and Employment Network (BBLLLEN), the expo brought together employers, universities, TAFEs, training providers and industry representatives to help students explore education and employment pathways.
More than 2500 students from 28 secondary schools attended the event, along with more than 60 exhibitors representing a broad range of industries.
BBLLLEN executive officer Lisa Price said the expo gave young people an opportunity to speak directly with employers, educators and industry professionals.
"The JobSkills Expo helps students discover what's possible for their future," she said. "By speaking directly with employers, educators and industry professionals, young people can gain valuable insights into career pathways and the skills they need to succeed."
Students were able to learn about apprenticeships, traineeships, tertiary study and employment opportunities, as well as emerging industries and workforce trends.
Industry panel sessions featured professionals from emergency services, health, agriculture, defence, community services and skilled trades, who discussed their career journeys and answered questions from students.
The State Electricity Commission also delivered its Power Your Clean Energy Career workshop, highlighting employment opportunities associated with Victoria's transition to renewable energy.
More than 50 buses transported students to the expo from schools across East Gippsland, South Gippsland, Bass Coast, Latrobe City and Baw Baw Shire.
Ms Price said the event demonstrated the value of schools, industry, training providers and community organisations working together to support the region's future workforce.
"The expo continues to demonstrate the power of collaboration between schools, industry, training providers and community organisations in supporting Gippsland's future workforce," she said.
