More than 1,000 young people attended the GM Youth Career Expo 2026 at Co-op Live on Wednesday 12 August, in what is already being hailed as one of the region's most successful youth employment and careers events.
With over 80 exhibitors in attendance, the Expo offered a diverse range of opportunities including jobs, Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs), work experience placements, training and learning opportunities, and apprenticeships, ensuring there was something for everyone, regardless of their career aspirations or experience.
The event was officially opened by DWP Permanent Secretary Sarah Healey, who joined employers, training providers, and support organisations from across Greater Manchester in championing opportunities for young people.
Visitors enjoyed an interactive programme throughout the day. One of the highlights of the event was a full-scale fashion show, supported by Smart Works Greater Manchester and Working Wardrobe, showcasing a variety of interview outfits and helping attendees understand how to dress confidently for different workplace settings.
Exhibitors brought careers to life through an impressive range of hands-on experiences and displays. Young people had the opportunity to explore HGV trucks, a Go Northwest bus, police vehicles and driving instructor vehicles, all located within the venue itself.
Interactive activities included mocktail making demonstrations, a driving simulator, virtual reality experiences, and digital content creation opportunities, helping attendees gain valuable insight into a wide range of career sectors.
Cath Taylor, Partnership Manager at Oldham Jobcentre said: “Early feedback from both young people and exhibitors has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the scale, innovation, and impact of the event.”
"I can honestly say in the 12 years I have been doing this; it was the best one I have ever attended." One exhibitor said, “It was a fantastic event and hopefully it continues in the future."
The success of the GM Youth Career Expo 2026 demonstrates the power of partnership working across Greater Manchester and reinforces the region's commitment to helping young people build confidence, develop skills, and access meaningful opportunities that support their future careers.
As organisers reflect on the event's success, plans are already being explored to build on this momentum and continue supporting the next generation of talent across Greater Manchester.
Closer to home in Oldham, Oldham Jobcentre has been supporting Construction Jobs fair events, working with partners and other organisations to support anyone wanting to get into the industry.
Cath Taylor, Partnership Manager at Oldham Jobcentre said: “This Summer, the Job Centre has focused on working with employers to increase the supply of new workers to help fill their vacancies, and that jobseekers taking a summer job can be a stepping stone to building lifelong skills, gain practical experience, develop essential transferable skills and explore different career opportunities.
“Temporary jobs can also boost a CV, demonstrating a work history, experience, and willingness to learn, which can be valuable when applying for future roles, including a permanent job.”
Jobseekers in Oldham are encouraged to continue checking out the range of vacancies available on Find a Job an easy to access Gov.UK hub to help you find what you are looking for and build your CV.
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