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06 Sept 2025

Over 1,000 attend Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board apprenticeship event

KCETB's second annual apprenticeship expo took place at the Lyrath Estate Convention Centre in Kilkenny.

Kilkenny

Jack Doyle, apprentice of the OPW, from Castlecomer, Kilkenny Picture: Dylan Vaughan

Over 1,000 people attended the recent Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) second annual Apprenticeship Expo at Lyrath Estate Convention Centre in Kilkenny.

The attendees, included potential apprentices, employers, and their families, all eager to explore the diverse opportunities available through apprenticeships.

“We are thrilled with the turnout at this year’s Apprenticeship Expo,” said Martha Bolger, Director of Further Education and Training at KCETB. “The high level of interest reinforces the growing recognition of apprenticeships as a valuable career pathway. The Expo continues to be an excellent platform for connecting individuals with employers and providing essential insights into the wide range of apprenticeships available in various sectors.”

The Apprenticeship Expo showcased more than 55 stands representing a mix of local and national employers, all actively recruiting apprentices for the upcoming year. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with employers, learn about available apprenticeship programmes, and gain firsthand insights from current apprentices about their experiences in different industries.

“The quality of candidates we met was exceptional,” said Eamon Rafter of the OPW, who attended the event. “It was clear that many attendees were well-prepared and genuinely interested in starting an apprenticeship. This Expo has been a fantastic opportunity to meet the next generation of talent.”

Virginia Bohan, Senior Training Advisor with KCETB, said the positive feedback received from both employers and potential apprentices highlights the importance of events like the Apprenticeship Expo.

“It’s a vital part of our work to support both industries and individuals in connecting with the right opportunities and resources to succeed,” she said.

KCETB aims to demonstrate its commitment to providing high-quality training pathways that meet the needs of the workforce and support industries in both Kilkenny and Carlow.

With a strong focus on creating opportunities for young people, the Expo has firmly established itself as a key event in the region’s education and training calendar.

For more information on apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeship.ie or www.KCETB.ie.
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