Event inspires Blackpool students with range of career opportunities

Almost 1,500 young students took time to consider their futures at a careers fair which featured a diverse and dynamic range of employers from across the Fylde Coast and beyond.

A range of sectors and disciplines were represented at the event which was organised by Fylde Coast Responsible Business Network and held at the Blackpool Conference and Exhibition Centre.

Year 9 students from all 13 Blackpool secondary schools attended the event, which attracted almost 50 employers offering a variety of careers advice including the likes of BAE Systems, Lloyd Motor Group, Victrex, Beaverbrooks, Choice Hotels and DES Energy. 

The event aimed to expose young people to the many career paths and opportunities on the Fylde Coast and to inspire them as they start to make decisions about their future.

Sean Egan, director of DES Energy, an engineering and renewable energy company operating throughout the UK from its headquarters in Poulton, said: “What I’ve been struck by at this event is the level of engagement from the young people, and the variety of businesses that have exhibited.

“It’s important that we work together to let young people know that they don’t need to leave the area to enjoy a successful career. There are so many opportunities right here, I think that has definitely been conveyed.

“From our perspective, we are working in an emerging sector which will yield opportunities and enjoy growth for many years to come. Young people are tuned into that; they see the direction of travel and want to be a part of it.”

Students engaged with all the varied organisations, some of whom brought interactive displays including VR experiences, video green screens – and there was even an electric MINI on display.

Michelle Walker, project lead for the Fylde Coast Responsible Business Network, which organised the event, said: “The feedback we have had from exhibitors, schools and students has been fantastic. It was a busy day with over 1,400 Year 9 students from thirteen schools in attendance.

“Events like this are so important to showcase the vast array of opportunities available to young people within the town, and to excite them about what possibilities lie ahead in terms of their future careers and the pathways to get there.

“I’d like to thank the businesses and organisations that gave their time and energy to making the day such a success.”

The Fylde Coast Responsible Business Network is in its sixth year. It’s three priority aims are:

● Raising aspirations for young people and work readiness

● Creating job opportunities and reducing unemployment

● Improving mental health and wellbeing of the Fylde Coast workforce

This specific event, held on January 31, was delivered as part of a wider project which has received £199,934 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.