Boat Show Careers Day initiative casts the net to NSW students

by Jeni Bone on 4 Aug 2013 As part of its charter, the BIA NSW hosted a Careers Open Day, Friday 2 August, aiming to show the breadth and diversity of job opportunities in the marine sector and recreational boating.

Around 650 students from all over the state took part in the wide-ranging Careers Open Day market and briefing, finding out more about the opportunities available to them with the help of 17 boating businesses and their careers advisers on hand to help.

'It's our objective as part of our education arm to show young people what options are available across the industry,' explains Domenic Genua, marketing manager of the BIA NSW, adding that Corrina McMillan heads up the education arm.

'We invite educational institutions across the state to partner with us - the TAFE system, Department of Education, Marine Teachers Association and various schools. The kids enjoy a special presentation on recreational boating and other peripheral sectors, highlighting the career options and further education. Then they go into the boat show and see for themselves!'

This year, 25 schools were involved, accounting for 650 students, and 17 exhibitors showed their wares.

'The feedback has been excellent, very positive. It's great for the future of the industry. Even if just a handful of kids get involved, 5-10% - that's 30 or 50 kids that will be entering the industry in sales, as craftsmen, mechanics and other vital roles.'