Mayo Education and Training Expo set to inspire future pathways

Get ready – the annual Education and Training Expo/Taispeántas Oideachais agus Oiliúna is just around the corner. On Wednesday, November 27, students, parents, and families from across the region are invited to the University of Galway Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence Air Dome in Bekan, for an incredible opportunity to explore a world of career possibilities.

This is your chance to meet representatives from top universities, colleges, and organisations, ready to help you shape your future. Exhibitors include University Galway, all three ATU campuses, University Limerick, Trinity College Dublin, DCU, Mary Immaculate College, An Garda Síochána, Irish Defence Forces, and a wide selection of Further Education and Training options from Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim ETB. With dozens of options under one roof, this is the must-attend event for anyone thinking about their next steps – whether it’s an apprenticeship, further education or university.

“This isn’t just another expo – it's a gateway to opportunity,” says Pat Howley, Chairperson of the Mayo Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) Education and Training Working Group. “We want everyone walking through these doors to leave with fresh ideas, new insights, and the confidence to take their next step.”

The Expo is a one-stop-shop for students to get informed about the variety of paths they can take after school. With free admission, this event is designed to give everyone access to essential resources, whether you're aiming for higher education, a practical career, or training to upskill or reskill.

“We’ve brought together a diverse range of exhibitors from across the country,” continues Mr. Howley. “This is a golden opportunity for students to ask questions, get answers, and explore their options in a way that isn’t possible online. Meet the real people behind these institutions and learn what could be waiting for you.”

Organised by Mayo County Council, MSLETB, HSE, Mayo Roscommon Local Area Employment Services, SICAP, Údarás na Gaeltachta, ATU, South West Mayo Development Company, and the Mayo North East LEADER Partnership, this year’s Expo promises to be an event like no other.

Pat Howley added: “We’re calling on students, parents, teachers, and guidance counsellors from every corner of the region to be part of this.”

The organising team for this year’s event includes Pat Howley, Anne Ronayne, Barbara Ronayne, Donal Hoban, Michael Gill, Pamela Ní Thaidhg, Tracie O’Leary, Margaret Keane, Orlagh Denneny, Tim Rogers, Charlie Lambert, Mary Costello, and Justin Sammon.

Pictured above are, from left: Anne Ronayne, Mayo County Council; Pat Howley, MSLETB; Barbara Ronayne, MSLETB; Donal Hoban, HSE; Pamela Ní Thaidhg, Údarás na Gaeltachta; Mary Costello, Mayo PPN and Charlie Lambert Mayo Sports Partnership.