Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) celebrated the resounding success of its Second Annual Apprenticeship Expo, held on Thursday 6th of March at the Lyrath Estate Convention Centre in Kilkenny. The event drew an impressive crowd of over 1,000 attendees, including potential apprentices, employers, and their families, all eager to explore the diverse opportunities available through apprenticeships.
Martha Bolger, Director of Further Education and Training at KCETB, reflected on the event’s success, saying, “We are thrilled with the turnout at this year’s Apprenticeship Expo. The high level of interest reinforces the growing recognition of apprenticeships as a valuable career pathway. The Expo continues to be an excellent platform for connecting individuals with employers and providing essential insights into the wide range of apprenticeships available in various sectors.”
The Apprenticeship Expo showcased more than 55 stands representing a mix of local and national employers, all actively recruiting apprentices for the upcoming year. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with employers, learn about available apprenticeship programmes, and gain first-hand insights from current apprentices about their experiences in different industries.
Eamon Rafter of the OPW, who attended the event, commented, “The quality of candidates we met yesterday was exceptional. It was clear that many attendees were well-prepared and genuinely interested in starting an apprenticeship. This Expo has been a fantastic opportunity to meet the next generation of talent.”
Virginia Bohan, Senior Training Advisor with KCETB, said, “The positive feedback we received from both employers and potential apprentices highlights the importance of events like the Apprenticeship Expo. It’s a vital part of our work to support both industries and individuals in connecting with the right opportunities and resources to succeed.”
KCETB continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing high-quality training pathways that meet the needs of the workforce and support industries in both Kilkenny and Carlow. With a strong focus on creating career opportunities for young people, the Apprenticeship Expo has firmly established itself as a key event in the region’s education and training calendar.
For more information on apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeship.ie or www.KCETB.ie.
For Inquiries, Please Contact:
Melinda Niland, Training Services Manager
Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB)
Email: melinda.niland@kcetbtraining.ie
Tel: 087 981 4044