JOBS and skills will be showcased at the largest event of its kind in the area, which is being hosted by Tees Valley Unlimited.

Tees Valley Skills Event, which is being held at Teesside University in Middlesbrough, on December 15, aims to develop the workforce of tomorrow and make young people more aware of their career options.

Stephen Catchpole, the managing director of TVU, the Local Enterprise Partnership for Tees Valley, said: “If Tees Valley is to prosper and reach its full economic potential, it is imperative that the future generation of employees is equipped with the necessary skills and qualifications to meet companies’ requirements.

“We need to harness the talent and ability of young people in Tees Valley and prove to them that there is a wealth of career opportunities within the area and that there is no need for them to move elsewhere to find a successful and satisfying career.

“We and our partners hope that the event will empower young people to make the right decisions about education, training and careers. It also will highlight what Tees Valley companies look for in a workforce and what educational routes need to be followed to secure different types of employment.”

TVU is building on last year’s success with the 2014 Tees Valley Skills Event attracting more than 50 organisations including colleges, learning providers, employers and universities, which provided a wide range of interactive skills activities that motivated and inspired more than 1,700 attendees.

It will give learners the opportunity find out about skills, trades and professions they may never have considered and ‘have a go’ at tasks showcasing the priority business growth sectors in Tees Valley including; Advanced Manufacturing, Health, Engineering, Renewables and Digital & Creative sectors .

Chris Mullen, Head of Manufacturing, FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, which exhibited at the event in 2014 said: “Our key aim is to encourage young people to study science and then move into a science based career. We are looking forward to attending this year’s event.”

For information contact Kelly Britton, kelly.britton@teesvalleyunlimited.gov.uk 01642 524450.