Students checking out the many interactive displays at this year’s Apprenticeship Careers Showcase.
From traditional trades to creative industries, increasing numbers of students are embracing apprenticeships as a pathway to rewarding careers
Over 1,700 students from the Mid-West attended Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board’s Apprenticeship Careers Showcase 2025 at the Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Limerick. The record turnout reflects the growing popularity of apprenticeships as practical, hands-on routes into successful careers across industries including engineering, construction, hospitality, aviation, hairdressing, and welding, plumbing etc.
Visiting students were inspired by these talented hairdressing trainees from Limerick and Clare ETB’s National Hairdressing Apprenticeship.
Students, parents, guidance teachers, and career changers explored interactive learning zones, met College of FET campus representatives from throughout Limerick and Clare, and spoke with Senior Training Advisors and university representatives from UL and TUS about the wide range of apprenticeship pathways now available.
Students chatted with College of FET mentors throughout this year’s showcase about a range of apprenticeships available.
Speaking at the event, Bernadette Cullen, Chief Executive of Limerick and Clare ETB, said: “Apprenticeships have never been more relevant or exciting. They offer a future-focused career path, delivering paid learning, real-world experience, and excellent job prospects. This event gives learners the opportunity to see that for themselves and imagine where their skills can take them.”
Tutor and master blacksmith Eric O’Neill from Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET Cappamore Campus in action at this year’s showcase.
One of the many highlights of the showcase was the Apprenticeship Heroes Stage, featuring inspiring stories from current apprentices. Among them was Oisín Malloy, an Electrical Apprentice with IME Electrical, who began his apprenticeship in his thirties. Speaking about his own experience he said: “I used to think apprenticeships were only for school-leavers, but that’s simply not true. Starting my apprenticeship later in life has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Apprenticeships are for everyone, at any age, and they can open doors to a really rewarding future.”
One of the many highlights of this year’s showcase was the Apprenticeship Heroes Stage, featuring inspiring stories from current apprentices.
The event also reflected a broader trend: more and more young people, particularly young women, are turning to apprenticeships, challenging traditional norms and pursuing careers in fields once considered male-dominated.
The Apprenticeship Careers Showcase remains a key part of Limerick and Clare ETB’s mission to promote high-quality, skills-based education and help learners find meaningful, sustainable careers.
One of the many students finding inspiration at this year’s Apprenticeship Careers Showcase.
To learn more about apprenticeship opportunities, visit collegeoffet.ie/apprenticeships.
And to watch all the highlights from this year’s Apprenticeship Careers Showcase click here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QMSm-7EmLjMqgFiv1UtyZcTgrMDFIec_/view?usp=sharing
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