Stay going! That was the message that was shared by Guest Speaker, Mr Liam O’Shea of Tipp FM, Clare FM and Spin Southwest to employers and Tipperary Education and Training Board Youthreach staff at a networking event with employers held in the Anner Hotel, Thurles on Wednesday, May 3^rd. This event brought together the staff of Tipperary ETB’s three Youthreach Centres in Cappawhite, Roscrea and Templemore, as well as Community Training Centres (CTCs) now funded by Tipperary ETB and employers who assist learners in these programmes with work placements. Mr. Liam O’Shea shared his entrepreneurial expertise, stressing that in business (as in education) it helps to stay focussed, to work for what you believe in and to take the good with the tough.

Many employers in Tipperary give of their time and mentoring skills to the students from Youthreach centres on Work Experience placements.  Advocates working in Youthreach and CTCs are a vital link between the learner and the employer. The purpose of the event was to show appreciation for the  support of employers, create an opportunity for networking and to share information about what is available to employers through the services of Tipperary ETB.

Ms Eileen Condon, the Director of Further Education and Training outlined the opportunities that are available, especially the new training element in TETB, and thanked employers for their ongoing support.  Also present at the event were Matthew Ryan, TETB Training Services Manager and staff. TETB Adult Guidance staff were on hand to answer any queries about courses and brochures were handed out.  This event was also an opportunity to seek feedback from employers on the joint TETB and LEO Employer Needs Survey. The following key stakeholders of TETB were also present: Rita Guinan, CEO of Tipperary Local Enterprise Office; Adrian Cunneen, DSP; and Cllr. Joe Leddin, Manager of the Mid-West Regional Skills Forum.

The evening concluded with attendees enjoying a meal and listening to Mr O’Shea as he shared some of the lessons he learned in his career.  He encouraged all present to value the people in our businesses – the people make the business – and to be positive in the face of difficult situations; to stay going!