Cross-border partnership brings business and education leaders together to shape future workforce in Border region.
On Tuesday 29th September 2026, Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI), in partnership with Business in the Community Northern Ireland, hosted the business-led Cross-Border Careers: Supporting Local Talent Event & Roundtable in Corick House Hotel & Spa in Clogher, Co. Fermanagh.
The event formed a key part of the newly launched Cross-Border Careers programme which aims to strengthen links between schools and businesses, improving workplace readiness and building the future talent pipeline needed to support economic and social development across the border regions, where employers face growing skills and recruitment challenges.
As part of the programme – which connects businesses and young people in Armagh and Monaghan, Fermanagh and Cavan, and Tyrone and Donegal with local employers – pupils aged 16 to 18 from local schools are supported to build the confidence, skills and networks they need to make informed choices and shape their future careers.
At the event, delegates heard the concerns and perspectives of young people, before discussing: the barriers facing school leavers; the future skills needs of employers in border communities; and the practical ways in which businesses, schools and policymakers can work together on the issues raised.
A panel discussion at the event brought together Martin McVicar, CEO of Combilift; Sarah Abernethy, Talent Projects Specialist at Encirc; Justin Kerr, Head of the Careers Service at the Department for the Economy; and Sam Pearson, Transition Year Coordinator at The Royal and Prior Comprehensive School to share their perspectives on local talent development, workplace readiness and the pathways available to young people.
The insights from the event will help shape the programme and be used to identify opportunities for stronger employer engagement.
Mel Flynn, Education Programmes Manager with BITCI said “Supporting local students to realise their potential and avail of career opportunities in their area is the core aim of Cross Border Careers. Through this event there is an increased understanding and commitment to work together to develop future talent to support students in their education and employment journey which in turn will help to ensure the border region thrives.”
Dr Lisa McIlvenna, Managing Director, BITC Northern Ireland said: “Young people in border communities should be able to see, access and thrive in career opportunities available close to home. By sharing insights, opening workplaces and creating meaningful connections, employers can help young people make informed choices while building a stronger and more inclusive future talent pipeline”.
Businesses can get involved in Cross-Border Careers through the programme’s Virtual Employer Showcase on Tuesday 1 December 2026 which will give employers from a range of sectors an opportunity to introduce their organisations, highlight emerging roles and future skills needs, and connect with participating schools.
Cross-Border Careers is funded by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund.
For more information please see: Cross-Border Careers – bitci
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