Almost 200 students from across the Northern Rivers attended the seventh annual Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Aviation Careers Expo, where they explored the diverse career opportunities available within the aviation industry.
Supported by the NSW Department of Education and delivered through the Educational Pathways Program, the expo highlighted pathways in fields including engineering, sustainability, emerging technologies, infrastructure and airport operations.
The event brought together aviation professionals, industry organisations and exhibitors, giving students the opportunity to learn about careers ranging from pilots, engineers and cabin crew to air traffic controllers, drone operators, ground crew, defence personnel, mechanics, media creators, customer service staff and airport operations workers.
Throughout the day, students participated in a range of hands-on activities, including flight simulators, drone demonstrations, sustainability-focused exhibits and a behind-the-scenes runway tour. They also heard from industry representatives about career prospects in aviation and regional infrastructure.
Students also attended a presentation by 16-year-old pilot Byron Waller, who became one of the youngest people to complete a supported flight around the world when he was 15. Having flown through 19 countries and reached a global audience of millions, Waller shared his experiences and encouraged students to pursue their ambitions.
“Aviation opens doors to incredible opportunities, and it was fantastic to see so many students curious, engaged, and excited about their futures,” Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Manager Julie Stewart said.
Vanessa Perrin, Head Teacher Careers Ballina Schools Group and Educational Pathways Program, said the event had expanded considerably since it was first held.
“What began as a modest one-day event with less than 30 students has now grown into something far bigger than I could have ever imagined — with hundreds of students, multiple schools, exhibitors, presenters, industry stakeholders and community supporters all coming together around a shared passion for aviation, pathways and opportunity,” Perrin said.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see how much the event has grown and evolved over the years.”
The expo provided students with direct access to industry professionals and an opportunity to learn more about careers shaping the future of aviation and regional infrastructure.
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