Skills Expo 2026 inspires Worcestershire’s future workforce

Almost 100 businesses, training providers and education institutions came together to showcase career pathways, highlight in-demand skills and connect directly with Worcestershire's future workforce.

Students were able to try hands-on activities, speak with employers and professionals, and explore the wide range of opportunities available to them after leaving school.

The county's largest skills, training, education and employment event for students took place over two days (4-5 March) at Sixways Stadium.

It was delivered by Worcestershire County Council's Skills and Employability service through its Early Careers and Careers Worcestershire programmes.

A dedicated parents and carers evening was also held on the first day of the event, giving families the opportunity to meet employers, training providers and education organisations and learn more about the pathways available to young people.

Councillor Alan Amos, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Business and Skills at Worcestershire County Council, said, "This is exactly what Worcestershire Skills Expo is all about - opening young people's eyes to the huge range of opportunities available to them right here in our county. Welcoming more than 4,000 students shows just how important this event has become. We need our young people to step forward, engage with employers and start thinking seriously about their future careers. Worcestershire has ambitious businesses that need talented people, and events like this from our Skills and Employability service help bring the next generation face-to-face with those opportunities."

Judy Gibbs, Head of Skills and Employability at Worcestershire County Council, added, "It has been fantastic to see the energy and enthusiasm from young people over the two days of Skills Expo. Watching them try new activities, ask questions and start to picture their future careers is exactly what this event is all about. We are proud to bring together employers, schools, parents, carers and residents from across Worcestershire and connect them with opportunities to learn, train, work and gain skills for life. By working together, we can support the next generation and continue building a strong talent pipeline for the county."

Following the success of this year's event, planning is already underway for Skills Expo 2027, with additional careers and apprenticeship events planned across the county later this year.

For more information about careers advice and support in Worcestershire, visit the County Council website.