SOME of Hampshire’s biggest employers will set out their stalls to inspire young people making the next move towards their dream careers.

Representatives from 120 companies and organisations will be exhibiting at tomorrow’s Solent Skills Festival and Jobs Fair at the City Cruise Terminal.

They are aiming to inspire more than 4,000 young people who are expected to flood through the doors for the popular event, which is now in its 11th year.

A range of businesses and organisations will hope to tempt youngsters with their displays, exhibitions and challenges – demonstrating the latest career and apprenticeship opportunities.

Careers range from engineering and construction to finance, law, hospitality and hair and beauty, while armed forces personnel, public services and training providers are also setting up stall.

Major employers taking part include Associated British Ports (ABP), BAE Systems, Exxon Mobil and IBM plus construction companies Crest Nicholson and Bouygues.

There will also be representatives from Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Hampshire Constabulary, Southampton Solent University and Eastleigh College, while journalists from the Daily Echo will be on hand to tell any budding reporters all they need to know about working for one of the top regional newspapers in the country.

The day is organised by the Solent Education Business Partnership (EBP) and supported by the European Social Fund and local authorities such as Southampton City Council, Eastleigh Borough Council and New Forest District Council.

Solent EBP events manager Robin Smith said: “This is a fantastic event and the opportunity for young people to come along to learn about the pathways to their dream careers.

“Employers are looking forward to meeting them and young people can ask lots of questions that they don’t necessarily get the opportunity to ask in the classroom,” he added.

The event runs from 9am-6pm and is split into two sessions with schools and colleges able to bring pupils along from 9am-2pm. Afterwards parents, carers, families and post 16 students will meet exhibitors until 6pm.

You can find out how to register for the morning session and to view more information at solent-ebp.co.uk/projexcts-events-skills-fest.htm. You can also turn up to the free event on the day. Any organisation wanting to exhibit should email robin.smith@solent-ebp.co.uk.