At ASH Integrated Services, we believe that helping young people understand their future careers options early can have a lasting impact.
Our Director, Antony Grace, recently attended the careers fair at Smithills School during National Careers Week.
He joined a wide range of organisations that came together to help students explore their future pathways.
The event brought employers, universities, apprenticeship providers, financial organisations, and the armed forces into the school.
Pupils have the opportunity to speak directly with professionals and ask questions about different careers.
Opening Young Minds to New Opportunities
Careers events like this play an important role in helping young people understand the many routes available to them after school.
For some students, university will be the right path.
For others, apprenticeships, vocational training, or entering the workplace may offer a better fit.
Events that showcase all of these options allow pupils to make informed decisions about their futures.
Throughout the day, students spoke with representatives from multiple sectors, learning about the skills employers look for, what different roles involve, and the qualifications needed to enter those industries.
For many young people, these conversations provide their first real insight into how the working world operates.
Real Conversations with Real Employers
One of the most valuable aspects was the opportunity for students to speak directly with professionals about their experiences.
Antony spent time discussing engineering careers, apprenticeships, and the many opportunities available within mechanical and electrical engineering.
Students were able to ask questions about the industry, explore career pathways, and learn about the skills required to succeed.
These types of conversations help pupils connect classroom learning with real-world careers and begin thinking about what their own future might look like.
Antony said.
“Events like this are incredibly important because many young people simply haven’t been exposed to the range of careers available to them.
When students can speak directly to people working in different industries, it makes those career paths feel real and achievable. If sharing our experiences helps even a handful of students think differently about their future, then it’s time well spent.”
Building Confidence for the Future
Beyond career advice, events like the Smithills School careers fair also help students develop important communication and confidence skills.
Speaking with professionals, asking questions, and discussing their ambitions allows young people to practice the kind of conversations they will have in interviews, college applications, and future workplaces.
It’s often these early experiences that help students feel more confident about the choices ahead of them.
A Valuable Experience for Students
Following the event, the school shared their appreciation for the organisations that supported the careers fair.
Andrea Bennett, Careers Leader said:
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the providers, employers, colleges, and universities who supported and participated in our Careers Fair.
Your time, expertise, and enthusiasm made the event a valuable experience for our students.
By sharing insights into your industries, training pathways, and educational opportunities, you helped inspire young people to think more confidently about their future careers and next steps.”
Giving Back to the Community
For Antony taking part in events like this is an important part of helping address the industry skills gap.
Engineering and building services continue to face a shortage of skilled professionals.
Raising awareness of career opportunities is an essential step in inspiring the next generation.
By working with schools, colleges, and training providers, ASH remains committed to helping young people understand the opportunities available to them and supporting the development of future engineers.
Rallying Call
If you’re a school, college, or organisation looking to connect students with real industry experiences, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch with ASH Integrated Services.
Explore how we can support careers events, workshops, and opportunities that help young people discover the possibilities available to them.
