Locals looking to kickstart or advance their careers had the chance to connect directly with employers at the first-ever STEPS Employment Expo on the Sunshine Coast, held at the STEPS Caloundra office.
The Employment Expo brought together a unique blend of employers and jobseekers under one roof, creating a welcoming space for meaningful conversations and career-building opportunities.
From aged care and manufacturing to disability support and community services, stallholders represented industries with real and accessible pathways to employment.
Open to the entire community, the Employment Expo welcomed local jobseekers and STEPS participants from a variety of programs, including Mental Health Support, and Education and Training courses.
Students and graduates from STEPS Pathways College, the first and only program of its kind in Australia for young adults with a disability and autism, also attended, gaining valuable exposure to real-world employment options.
Local businesses who hosted stalls include Just Better Care, Project Search, Arcare, Dovida, STEPS Staffing Solutions, and The Country Chef Bakery Co.
“The atmosphere was fantastic,” said Karissa Bultitude, a STEPS Community Development Officer based in the Sunshine Coast.
“We’re proud to provide a space where people can connect, develop their professional confidence, and take the next step in their career journey.”
The Employment Expo is part of STEPS’ ongoing commitment to empowering individuals through education, training and employment, and is designed to foster strong partnerships between local employers, service providers and the community.
STEPS aims for the Employment Expo to play a key role in creating inclusive opportunities for jobseekers of all ages and abilities.
Following the success of this inaugural Sunshine Coast event, STEPS is already planning future expos in other regions. The Caloundra stallholders have also expressed keen interest in attending future STEPS Employment Expos in the area.
