In two weeks, Wels will once again become the capital of career information: Around 80,000 young visitors will flock to the exhibition center to find out what career opportunities are available for them. The offer is large, 311 exhibitors – a new record number – will present themselves as potential employers. In addition to numerous companies, there are also the police, the army and secondary schools.
The exhibition areas cover 22,500 square meters, but will still be “bursting at the seams” because of the rush, says Upper Austria’s Chamber of Commerce President Doris Hummer. The WKOÖ is also the organizer.
“spoiled for choice”
Young workers are in demand in almost every industry. There is currently an intensive search for apprentices (see info box). At the end of August there were 2,315 apprenticeship positions available in Upper Austria, compared to only 782 young women and men who would like to start an apprenticeship. “There are currently three vacancies for one apprentice,” says Economics Councilor Markus Achleitner (VP).
“Every second young person in Upper Austria starts an apprenticeship”. Due to low birth rates, the number of apprentices would decrease overall. Achleitner: “The young people can choose where they want to work”. Hummer speaks of being “spoiled for choice”.
In order to make this choice easier, the “Youth & Career” fair will be held in Wels for the 33rd time this year. The many exhibitors present their everyday work and the possible opportunities for advancement in their company. Those who cannot make it to Wels can visit the fair virtually (www.jugendundberuf.info).
Apprentices are missing here
There are currently 2,315 vacancies for apprenticeships in Upper Austria. The need is greatest in trade and transport occupations (e.g. sales, truck or bus drivers), where there are 651 vacancies. Technicians for the metal and electrical industry are also in demand: 493 apprentices are being sought here. In tourism, 406 people could start an apprenticeship immediately. Applicants also have good opportunities in the construction industry and office jobs, where there are 203 and 160 training positions respectively.
Application photos and lectures
For the first time there is also the opportunity to have professional application photos taken at the “Youth and Career” fair, which is presented by the OÖ Nachrichten. In addition, both young people and their parents can find out about the world of work in free lectures. The fair is open with free entry from 5 to 8 October: Wednesday and Thursday from 8.30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday until 5 p.m. and Saturday until 4 p.m.
Free parking spaces are available at the exhibition center for arrival. The train journey from Wels main station to the exhibition center is free for visitors.
Source: Nachrichten
