Network, Learn, Engage
Shaping Careers Through Experience and Opportunity
On the 5th of September, Pathway Group hosted an impactful Career Connect roundtable and networking event at Birmingham’s Millennium Point. The event brought together a variety of stakeholders from the education and training sectors, including representatives from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), Birmingham City Councvariousl, and the Department for Work and Pensions. Professionals from across the UK, including key figures in apprenticeships and career development, gathered to discuss critical topics, particularly the importance of work experience in career progression.
'Bridging Skills, Work Experience & the Future of the Labour Market'
The event was co-hosted by Martin Chandler and Jagdeep Soor of Pathway Group, who facilitated rich discussions on how work experience contributes to career success and the broader labour market. Key speakers, including Isobel Taylor and Andrew Fisher from WMCA, as well as Alex Kennedy from Lightcast, shared their expertise.
Key Highlights
Alex Kennedy, Account Director at Lightcast, presented on the Future of Work and the importance of skills-based hiring, where he emphasised how employers are increasingly shifting focus from formal qualifications to skills-based competencies. He also highlighted the rising demand for AI skills across various sectors and the importance of aligning education with local labour market needs.
- Isobel Taylor and Andrew Fisher from the West Midlands Combined Authority outlined the Apprenticeships, Careers & Skills Strategy for the West Midlands. They showcased how regional initiatives are helping to improve qualifications, promote higher-level skills, and create stronger community support through training.
'Bridging Skills, Work Experience & the Future of the Labour Market'
In Martin Chandler’s session on leveraging work experience, participants two engaging discussions focused on integrating work experience into career provision and articulating its value to clients.
Key insights on integration included:
Job Coaches and Employer Engagement were seen as vital for guiding career journeys. Participants stressed the importance of tailored advice and continuous mentorship through job coaches.
Workplace Visits and Employer Encounters were highlighted as crucial for bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical experience, offering real-world exposure.
The role of Accountability, alongside References and Mentors, was emphasised as essential in ensuring individuals remain engaged in their career development and supported by a strong network.
Hands-on experience and short-term internships were recognised as invaluable for allowing individuals to explore various roles and better understand their long-term career goals.
On articulating the value of work experience, participants noted:
Showcasing skills developed through work experience is key to helping clients market themselves to employers.
Skills development and progression were highlighted as critical ways work experience contributes to personal and professional growth, offering opportunities to gain new competencies and advance careers.
Positive outcomes and linking experience to real-world jobs were seen as essential. Advisers should help clients understand how their experience directly connects to career aspirations and employment opportunities.
Using 360 feedback and case studies further reinforced the value of work experience, demonstrating tangible benefits and success stories to clients.
These insights emphasise the importance of work experience in both skill-building and career progression, while also stressing the need for clear communication of its benefits to clients.
'Leading the Charge: Insights on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Mobility'
During the Career Connect event, a key discussion on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Mobility was led by Jagdeep Soor, Head of the Multicultural Apprenticeship and Skills Alliance. The session involved a reflective discussion where participants shared the first three words that came to mind when considering these critical concepts.
The term “Social Justice” emerged as the most prominent, underscoring the collective commitment to fairness and equality in all sectors. Alongside this, “Uplift” and “Climbing the Ladder” highlighted the importance of creating pathways for upward mobility and ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed.
Additional terms such as “Workplace Culture,” “Autonomy,” and “Opportunities for All” emphasised the need for inclusive environments where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has an equal chance to thrive. Responses like “Role Model” and “Fairness Caring” also pointed to the critical role of leadership in fostering an environment where equity and inclusion are practiced.
Jagdeep Soor’s leadership in this discussion helped spotlight the shared vision for a future where social mobility is achievable for all, supported by inclusive policies and equitable opportunities in the workplace. This session captured the participants’ strong commitment to equality, representation, and support, reflecting a collective desire for a society where everyone can progress and succeed.