Businesses shape Lancashire’s future workforce at special event

More than 50 businesses helped to shape Lancashire’s future workforce this week at a well-attended careers event.

Organised by Runshaw College, representatives from businesses across the county and beyond met with more than 500 young people to give them an insight into the world of work and the career paths available to them in industries such as construction, engineering, finance, local government, retail and the voluntary sector.

Business exhibitors at the annual careers fair ranged from local employers such as Chorley Council and Lancashire Constabulary through to large national companies including Balfour Beatty, Barclays and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Each exhibitor gave valuable first-hand advice on their organisation, the job roles available and the necessary career paths that students will need to follow in order to apply.

Katy-Jane Kelly, assistant manager of Barclays Preston Fishergate branch, said: “We really enjoyed interacting with the young people and giving them an insight into working within our industry. It was incredibly encouraging to see so many young people demonstrating a keen interest in Barclays and we gave lots of advice regarding what steps they can take to achieve their careers goals. We look forward to welcoming some of them once they have completed their studies.”

Kevin Hutchinson, community and training liaison manager at Balfour Beatty, said: “The opportunity to meet and discuss future vocations with young people, provide careers advice, work placement and employment opportunities is something Balfour Beatty are keen to promote. We found the event highly beneficial and would welcome any further engagement with the college and the students.”

Adrian Roscoe, business centre manager at Runshaw College said: “This year’s careers fair was our biggest to date and is something that we will continue to build on. The businesses and organisations involved recognise the value in engaging with local young people and assisting them with their career choices, both in terms of giving something back to the local community and also in terms of increasing the awareness of the roles available and the quality of future applicants.” The event took place ahead of National Apprenticeship Week which celebrates the benefits of apprenticeships. The event was open to all current Runshaw College students, including A-Level, vocational, higher education and adult learners.