Kilkenny and Carlow ETB set to host apprentice expo this January

Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) will host its Apprenticeship Expo, taking place in Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training on Thursday, January 29.

The event will bring together apprenticeship employers, industry experts, learners, jobseekers, and guidance professionals to explore the wide range of apprenticeship opportunities available across multiple sectors.

KCETB continues 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 career opportunities for young people, the Apprenticeship Expo, now in its third year, has firmly established itself as a key event in the region’s education and training calendar.

Chief Executive at KCETB Dr Lindsay Malone said the KCETB Apprenticeship Expo is  a vital platform for connecting local talent with regional employers.

"By bringing businesses, educators, and jobseekers together under one roof, the Expo strengthens our workforce, supports economic growth, and ensures that the Southeast continues to thrive as a hub of opportunity and innovation," she said.
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"Hosting it at Carlow Institute of Further Education is especially significant, as it places the spotlight on a centre of learning and skills development that is at the heart of our community, making the connection between education and employment even more powerful.”

Martha Bolger, Director of Further Education and Training at KCETB said: “The value of apprenticeship has grown enormously in the last few years. In tandem KCETB has grown its apprenticeship offerings in its Electrical Phase 2 provision in Kilkenny. This event now in its third year is highlighting the importance of learning on the job, giving apprentices gateways to many career opportunities in Kilkenny and Carlow and beyond.”
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Training Services Manager Melinda Niland encourages those interested in apprenticeship to come along on the day.

“The KCETB Apprenticeship Expo provides a valuable opportunity for learners, jobseekers, parents and guidance professionals to engage directly with employers and training providers and to gain a clear understanding of the apprenticeship pathways available," she says.

"Apprenticeships offer a practical, paid route to nationally recognised qualifications while developing real workplace skills. I would strongly encourage anyone considering their next career step to attend and explore the opportunities on offer. Please register via Eventbrite for your free ticket as it is a ticketed event."

Seamus Byrne Electrical said: “The KCETB Apprenticeship Expo has proven to be an excellent platform for connecting with motivated and capable apprentices. Seamus Byrne Electrical successfully recruited apprentices at the Expo in each of the past two years, highlighting the value of the event for both employers and learners. We are delighted to support the Expo once again and look forward to attending this year to engage with prospective apprentices and showcase the opportunities available within our company.”

With plenty of parking available onsite at Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training, this free event aims to deliver all you need to know about apprenticeships under one roof. Booking is essential via Eventbrite.

Join us for the KCETB Apprenticeship Expo 2026 from 6.30pm to 9pm on Thursday, January 29.