Flying the Flag for Careers in Hardware

In recent months Hardware Association Ireland celebrated career opportunities in the sector at a number of local and national careers fairs.

In September, Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) – under its job-sharing banner Hardware Jobs – participated in the national recruitment fair for students and graduates – WorldSkills Ireland Live to celebrate and promote career opportunities in the hardware/building materials sector.

WorldSkills Ireland 2024 is an annual event designed to inspire the next generation of skilled young people to follow their passions, interests and talents for the securement of their own future, and of Ireland’s. This is a unique opportunity for Teachers, Guidance Counsellors, parents and students to learn and experience all the different skill-based career options available in Ireland.

In October, HAI continued its campaign by attending the MTU Cork and Maynooth University graduate fairs, highlighting the sector’s potential for dynamic and rewarding careers.

At all three events the HAI team were visited by countless attending secondary school and university students, graduates and career guidance counsellors who were curious about career opportunities (including graduate programmes and work placements) in the hardware/DIY industry.

The HAI team were on hand to answer questions and provide insights into the various roles available in the industry, from logistics and supply chain management to retail operations, sales and management. They also shared information on training and upskilling opportunities, including HAI’s own Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting, and apprenticeships and work placements that would tie in with their studies.

University students who visited came from disciplines including Business & Management, Construction Studies and even more complementary areas of study, while others were excited to learn about the vast options and opportunities the sector offers in employment.

HAI continues to focus on strengthening the talent pipeline for the industry, ensuring a bright future for those interested in building a career in this essential sector.

Hardware Association Ireland would like to extend its sincere thanks to Kilsaran and Pipelife for their generous support in providing merchandise and careers information for the Hardware Jobs stand, and to Irish International Trading Corporation (IITC) for providing details of their latest job opportunities. Their contributions proved invaluable, generating significant interest among visitors and adding to the overall engagement at the fairs.

The efforts of employers in promoting career opportunities and attracting the next generation of talent to the hardware and building materials sector are truly commendable. HAI looks forward to continuing its collaboration with members and other partners to drive these initiatives forward.

Want to get involved in HAI’s Careers in Hardware campaign and share your career opportunities in the hardware and building materials sector? Contact aoife@hardwareassociation.ie for more information.