More than 10,000 secondary students, graduates and career changers are expected to attend the SkillsWest Expo this weekend – Western Australia’s premier careers and training event.
Now in its tenth year, the SkillsWest Expo brings together employers and training organisations under one roof, giving visitors a unique opportunity to speak with industry experts about career paths and vocational education and training (VET).
A key attraction is the dedicated TAFE STEM hub in the Try a Skill zone, where attendees can experience hands-on activities in new and emerging technologies.
Visitors can pilot a plane using virtual reality, try their hand at cyber security and deflect a hacking attempt, use CAD software to build a 3D ship and become a CSI agent for the day analysing a hair sample using laboratory technology.
WA VET Ambassadors Caitlan Noble and Megan Feaver, winners of the WA Training Awards in 2018, will be at the Expo sharing their experiences of training in the VET sector, Megan working as an electrician for Western Power and Caitlan as an anaesthetic technician at King Edward Memorial Hospital.
The SkillsWest Expo will host ten WorldSkills competitions testing some of the State’s most talented apprentices and trainees in a battle of skills such as bricklaying, plastering, heavy automotive, refrigeration and plumbing.
Jobs and Skills Centre services will be available at the Expo for jobseekers and students after career advice.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“The SkillsWest Expo is a unique opportunity to promote the growth and diversity of the VET sector.
“With more than 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations in Australia requiring STEM skills, increasing participation in STEM is a key priority area to build a globally competitive and innovative workforce with the skills to drive WA’s technological future and create new job opportunities.
“Whether you are in secondary school or looking for new work and career options the SkillsWest Expo has something for everyone. I encourage visitors to experience everything on offer and chat with our highly skilled trainers, employers and apprentices.”
