Over a hundred EIT students took advantage of Hawke’s Bay employers coming on campus to talk about job prospects at the Business School’s annual Careers Expo yesterday (Tuesday 28 August).
Students nearing graduation were keen to explore what employment opportunities were on offer, while others starting out on their EIT journey were looking for pointers on where to focus their studies.
Eleven businesses manned stalls, handed out brochures, and generally answered questions and offered advice.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our students and shows the value that businesses place on networking,” said Regan Cotter, EIT marketing lecturer.
For Matt Waterworth from accounting firm Crowe Horwath, it was an interesting opportunity to be the one answering the student’s questions. Just two years ago, Waterworth had been a graduating EIT student and got his current position with the firm from contacts made at the Expo.
“I put my name down, then got interviewed and was successful. It’s great to be putting what I learned into practical experience. And it feels good to be paid,” the BBS graduate said. “EIT was a really supportive learning experience. The small class size meant we could easily ask questions and take part in group discussions.”
Furnware representative, Trish Scott said the company was keen to employ local young people. “Our workforce is local, and supporting students through EIT aligns with Furnware’s purpose of inspiring young minds.”
In addition to full time employment opportunities, the company has in the past provided final year students with industry placements and projects to develop new ideas and practicum experience.
Relatively new to Hawke’s Bay as an employer, Xero’s team was keen to alert local students to job opportunities in the Napier-based operation. “We’re open and looking for young talent,” Hannah Focas, Xero‘s Wellington-based talent business partner said. Her Hawke’s Bay counterpart, Jess Warton said there were already six EIT IT graduates on board, with room for more.
Other employers present were Heinz Watties, Defence Careers, PWC, PKF Carr & Stanton, BWR Accounting, Staples Rodway, Workbridge and The Recruitment Company.