Shropshire County Federation held its first careers fair this November with more than 300 people attending to learn more about opportunities in the sector.
The event, organised by County Chair Millie Preece, involved 33 businesses from across the industry, as well as educational institutions Harper Adams University, Walford and Reeseheath colleges.
Millie, who runs her own business The Dairy Door, said she wanted to host a careers event to help young people see what options were available.
“We live in the largest landlocked county which is very rural. There's so much more to agriculture and the food sector than you think, and this event gave the opportunity for young members and the local community to see what's there,” said Millie.
“When I was at school I wasn't exposed to anything like this. It wasn't until I went to Harper that I experienced a careers fair which encompassed all the possible jobs in the agricultural and food sectors and opened my eyes to the endless opportunities.”
As one of the only careers events like it in the area, it was well supported, and the county federation has received positive feedback.
“Many businesses expressed that they had spoken to lots of keen and enthusiastic people who were interested in pursuing a career. It was also great that many businesses brought along their apprentices, placement students or graduates so that people could speak first hand to those in the roles,” added Millie. “It was great to see members, their parents and the local community come together - it had a real buzz!”
The event also helped to raise awareness of YFC in the local area and reaffirmed the organisation’s strengths of developing rural young people and providing skills to further careers.
Millie said: “I wouldn't be the person I am today without YFC, so being able to give something back to your members, I think, is invaluable!”
Following the event's success, Millie shared some tips to help other county federations that might be considering hosting something similar.
“We did career talks in the cattle ring, which was great, but I would recommend only having a few of these as people wanted to talk to the companies directly. Remember to advertise it well in your local community – we got a spot on Radio Shropshire and posted on local Facebook groups," advised Millie.
“Most importantly have the backing of the businesses attending – without them we wouldn't have had a careers fair! Thank you to the 33 businesses who came and supported us. We really appreciate it!”
