Inspiring Future Pathways at the Career Expo
On 2 July, more than 50 students from Years 7 to 12 across Roxby Downs Area School and St Barbara's Parish School attended the Career Expo at the Roxby Link Auditorium. Organised by Bonnie Grimston from BHP, the event provided students with the opportunity to explore a diverse range of career pathways, connect with industry professionals, and gain a better understanding of the opportunities available to them both locally and beyond.
Over 20 businesses, organisations, and industry representatives came together to showcase their professions through interactive displays, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences. Across 90 minutes of small-group rotations, students engaged directly with professionals, asking questions and learning about career pathways they may never have previously considered.
The expo was designed to increase awareness of career opportunities and spark early interest in a variety of industries. Representatives brought their roles to life through engaging displays, including drones used on site, scientific equipment such as Bunsen burners, and emergency services vehicles and gear. These interactive elements helped students gain a practical understanding of what different careers look like beyond the classroom.
One of the organisations represented was the Roxby Downs Community Hub. Events and Marketing Administrator Kyeesha shared insights into her role, the variety of work involved in community engagement and event management, and the pathways that led her to where she is today.
What made Kyeesha's participation particularly meaningful was her own career journey. Just three years ago, she joined the Community Hub as a work experience student. The opportunity allowed her to gain practical skills, build confidence, and explore a career path she had not previously considered. Today, she works within the Community Hub and was able to share her experience with students who are at a similar stage in their own journey.
"Work experience gave me the chance to learn skills, build confidence and discover a career path I hadn't considered. Being able to share that journey with students at the Career Expo showed me how important these opportunities are for young people."
Many students initially approached the Community Hub display with little understanding of what a career in events and marketing might involve. One of the most common questions was, "So, what do you actually do?" As conversations progressed, students became increasingly engaged, asking thoughtful questions about the role, the skills required, and the opportunities available within the industry.
Several students commented that they could see themselves pursuing a similar career pathway in the future, demonstrating the value of exposing young people to professions they may not be exposed to.
"The most rewarding part was seeing students become more engaged as the conversation went on. Many arrived not knowing what the community role involved, but by the end they were asking questions and considering it as a possible career pathway."
While some students arrived with a clear interest in specific industries, the expo encouraged broader exploration and curiosity. The hands-on format allowed students to move beyond their initial assumptions and discover opportunities that aligned with their interests, skills, and aspirations.
One of the most surprising outcomes of the day was the student voting. At the conclusion of the event, students were invited to vote for the career display they found most engaging. Despite competing alongside mining, emergency services, science, and technical industries, the Roxby Downs Community Hub was voted the second most popular display on the day.
This result highlighted the importance of showcasing a wide variety of career pathways. The Career Expo successfully connected local students with industry professionals, broadened awareness of future pathways, and reinforced the importance of work experience and career exploration. Through meaningful conversations and real-life stories, students gained valuable insight into the many possibilities available to them, helping them to make more informed decisions about their future education, training, and employment opportunities.