Career Fest promises interactive experience

An interactive careers event in Ashburton this October is aimed at showing many of the different industries and jobs that are available in the district, to inspire those looking for work or to upskill or find a new job.

Career Fest will be held at the Ashburton A&P Showgrounds, from 3.30pm-7pm on Thursday 9 October and organisers hope it will be a game-changer for some.

The event is a collaboration between Ashburton District Council, the Mayors Taskforce For Jobs and the Ministry of Social Development.

Council Group Manager of Compliance and Development Ian Hyde said local employers were being encouraged to come along and showcase their businesses.

“We are excited to show the different sorts of jobs and training pathways that are available. The building industry’s training organisation, for instance, has about 17 different apprenticeships which allows people to get into careers as builders, plasterers and painters, as well as auto-glaziers, aluminium and stone masons.

“The event in October is also a chance for people already in a job to think about other skills they might like to learn through a work-related course, or think about changing jobs altogether.”

Businesses at the event will get a chance to talk about what they do and the different skills they are looking for, or willing to teach.

Mr Hyde said that following feedback from last year’s Career Fest, the event would run until 7pm this year.

“This way we can also capture people who are already in work, or younger people who want to bring their family along to see all the work choices that are available.

“We know that, sometimes it’s tricky for people to know where to start looking for a job or choosing a career, and the Career Fest can start conversations about the merits of going to university or getting into further study, versus learning on the job.”

Mr Hyde said Mid Canterbury had a diverse business base, including leaders in the agricultural and manufacturing industries, as well as specialist retail and hospitality offerings.

“The knowledge and passion of our business owners and managers always impresses me and they need people to do all sorts of jobs, from installing new tech to driving trucks and tractors, and working in a butchery or retail shop.

“Having a job that you enjoy, with people that support your growth, is important and this Career Fest is a great first step to making that happen.”

Refreshments will be available, along with activities for younger family members.

Are you a business that wants to attend? Contact Sharon.Watson@adc.govt.nz