What should I upskill for?
Specific growth areas have been identified by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs. Thees include the following
- ICT (eg cloud computing)
- Green Economy (eg renewable energy, water and waste treatment/management)
- Chemistry and biological sciences
- The Food and Beverage sector (eg Innovation/ Supply Chain Management)
- Financial Services (eg Quanitiative Financial Analysis)
- Medical Devices Sector (Engineers, Technicians and trade)
- Wholesale and retail (Business leadership and retail operators).
It is always worth assessing your own existing skills and strengths first in order to find the course that is right for you. The Jobs Facilitator at your local Social Welfare Officer, and staff at your local FÁS office should be able to advise you. In addition, the Adult Education Guidance Service at your local VEC may be able to arrange for you to meet with a qualified guidance counsellor and help you plan your future. The Local Employment Services also offer mediation and guidance and may be of assistance to you if you are unsure about your options.
Returning to any form of education can be beneficial - you may discover skills and talents that you never thought you had, or may meet new people who can help you find employment in the future. Exploring new career paths through activities like volunteering may also present you with the opportunity to try new areas of potential employment.
