Secondary students spread their wings exploring exciting career pathways

Airshow Downunder Careers Day

During Week 4, 14 students attended a Careers Day at the Shellharbour Airport, as a prelude to the Airshow Downunder.

Students had the chance to look at exhibits, speak to volunteers and representatives from a variety of Aviation Industries, and listen to speakers talk at the Pavilion, using the 2-hour visit to educate and inspire themselves regarding future career opportunities.

Year 11 student Seb, who is studying to obtain his Pilot's License, also got the chance to sit in the flight deck of the Qantas 747-400 plane! Here's what he had to say about the day. 

"I signed up for this intending to network with other people and discuss other possible pathways I can take to achieve my dream of being an International Airline Pilot.

I got to talk to many ADF people, who were very helpful in discussing pathways to become a pilot through the Air Force and at a later date transfer to airlines.

I was also lucky enough to sit in the flight deck of the Qantas 747-400. The guide who was in the flight deck with me used to fly that exact plane, and since he could sense "some passion" from me, I got to use the throttle quadrant and also look at other parts of the flight deck while everything was turned on. It was absolutely amazing."

Abigail, a Year 10 student who also attended the Airshow Downunder Careers Day, also reflected on her experience:

"When I decided to attend the career day, I wasn't sure what to expect. I'd never been exposed to the wide world of aviation, and it hadn't been a considered option for me. So, when presented with the opportunity to attend I thought, 'why not?'

I am so glad I went. Being able to learn about the different career pathways and see some really cool planes and helicopters was such a fun experience.

From that day, I have learned just how much I really can do and achieve if I want it. Everybody there inspired me to dream bigger than myself and aspire to take chances and try new things because you're never going to know if you like something until you give it a go."

Women in Careers Conversations

In acknowledgment of International Women's Day, celebrated each year on March 8, Illawarra Sports High School hosted a career event supported by The Regional Industry Education Partnerships program (RIEP). 

The event brought together 200 female students who heard over 30 women speak about their various careers, many of which were in non-traditional vocations.

Students spent 20 minutes before each panel and were encouraged to ask questions.

Nine of our Stage 5 and 6 female students attended and benefited from career advice and wisdom to help them make informed decisions about future study and career pathways.