Career expo exposes students to job prospects

“If you can’t see it, you can’t be it.” Solomona Daniel from training organisation BCITO made this observation at the recent Trade Secrets outreach for Pasifika youth in Blenheim – yet his mantra fits other fields which anyone might pursue.

First-hand exposure to careers and education inspires Future of Work, returning to Marlborough Events Centre on 10 June. Some 70 exhibitors across 37 industries will broaden horizons for students and families who may not realise the spectrum of prospects.

“Kids often have perceptions of what a job is like and also don’t understand all the options out there,” said Kate Gaines, the event’s coordinator from Marlborough Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a cool way to open their eyes.”

The expo offers more than brochures and handshakes – attendees get chances at hands-on experiences. Last year, for instance, veterinarians supplied stuffed animals for suturing; constables brought “beer goggles” and a police dog; and trades trainers set out a wiring challenge.

“We encourage all of the different stations to have things that the kids can interact with,” Kate explained. “It’s about engagement – we try to give rangatahi in a way that makes sense to them so then they can make the choices that are right for their own interests and their own career paths.”

Future’s path
Future of Work’s past traces to 2019, launched as an offshoot of Council’s workforce strategy. Council previously partnered with the Graeme Dingle Foundation, but when the charity pulled back locally, the chamber stepped into the void for this year’s expo.

“It has had a few iterations,” Kate noted, “but it’s very well supported by the business community, training organisations, Council and all of the schools.”

One such booster is WK Advisors and Accountants. General Manager Amanda Wyngaard said the firm “values being involved in Future of Work as it provides a great opportunity to connect with young people and support the wider Marlborough community in developing future talent and career pathways”.

She continued: “The event aligns strongly with our cadetship programme and our focus on supporting emerging talent, helping students better understand modern accounting careers and the opportunities available locally in Marlborough.”
WK is but one example of a perennial participant.

“People keep coming back,” Kate reflected. “The organisations who have been there in the past really enjoy the day. That’s a measure of success, that they see the value in it.”