Now in its 10th year, the Professional Snapshot is a collaboration between the Shoalhaven Professional Business Association and council, with support from the University of Wollongong Shoalhaven, businesses and local high schools.

Students are offered a day program where they can participate in an innovative and unique career showcase that aims to provide high school students in Year 10/11 with a snapshot of career pathways and opportunities available in the Shoalhaven. 

Local businesses opened their doors and provided time in helping students learn about various industries and careers of growth in the region, including accounting, architecture, legal, engineering, surveying, health career paths, strategic planning, community development and recreational planning.

The day of workshops and hands on activities showcased the day in a life of a professional. 

Professionals shared their experiences, what studies and pathways students may need to get into a job, what a typical day may entail and some even provided practical information on how to find jobs once the students are qualified. 

The day encouraged students to explore different career options available in the Shoalhaven.

Council’s Economic Development manager Greg Pullen said this program allowed students to see first-hand what different career avenues are available in our city and ask questions from experts in their field. 

“We have been delivering this program for ten years to ensure our youth can hear first-hand the career opportunities available in the Shoalhaven,” he said.

“We hope this program will encourage our youth to study, stay and work in the place they grew up in and to also explore different career pathways that they may not have thought about.”

“There are many industries growing in our area including health, strategic planning, surveying, accounting, engineering opportunities in roads and infrastructure.

“These are the jobs in the next few years that will be in high demand. 

“Our aim is to help our youth gain employment, get the necessary skills and training and keep our youth employed in our area.”