The annual Employability and Skills Conference hosted by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough’s Labour Market Partnership (ABC LMP) took place yesterday, Thursday 6 November, at Craigavon Civic Centre, drawing a full house of educators, employers, policymakers and learners from across the region.
Centred around the theme ‘Educate, Empower, Employ’, the half-day event featured a dynamic programme of keynote speeches, panel discussions and real-life success stories, all aimed at shaping the future of careers and employability across the borough.
ABC’s Labour Market Partnership (LMP) is funded by the Department for Communities. Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, allowing for collaboration locally and regionally to support people towards and into work.
Renowned broadcaster Mark Simpson returned to compère the event, guiding conversations with warmth and insight as he led a day of thought-provoking discussion and collaboration.
Attendees were inspired by a distinguished line-up of speakers, including Professor Noel Purdy OBE from Stranmillis University College, who shared insights on tackling educational underachievement and improving pastoral care. Kathleen O’Hare OBE, Chair of the NI Skills Council, explored how education, training and employment can be better aligned through the newly launched Careers Action Plan 2025–2028.
Dr Eoin Magennis, Principal Economist at Ulster University, provided a strategic overview of the skills landscape and the economic trends shaping the workforce. Adding a personal and powerful perspective, Ruth Douglas, a former Lurgan College student and winner of the UK WorldSkills final in the Laboratory Technician category, shared her journey from higher-level apprenticeship to national recognition with Almac.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Stephen Moutray said: “Our young people deserve the very best opportunities to fulfil their potential. This conference is a vital step in ensuring we create inclusive, joined-up pathways into education, training and work.”
Tracy Rice, Chair of ABC’s Labour Market Partnership, added: “The Careers Action Plan sets a bold direction for the future. Today’s conference was about turning that vision into reality, ensuring every learner, educator and employer has a role in building a thriving, future-ready workforce.”
Funded by the Department for Communities, ABC’s Labour Market Partnership continues to drive collaboration across sectors to support people into meaningful employment. To find out more about the work of the LMP, click here.
