Nearly 200 students explore aviation careers at Ballina airport expo

NEARLY 200 students explored careers in aviation at the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Aviation Careers Expo, which has grown from 30 attendees in its first year to one of the region’s largest industry pathway events.

Now in its seventh year, the expo is held over two days and continues to attract increasing participation from schools across the Northern Rivers.

Run by the NSW Department of Education through its Educational Pathways Program, the expo highlights a wide range of career pathways across aviation including pilots, engineers, drone operators, air traffic controllers, cabin crew, mechanics and airport operations staff.

Students also explored opportunities in emerging technologies, infrastructure and regional airport operations as part of the program.

Interactive experiences were a key feature of the expo, with students taking part in flight simulators, drone demonstrations, environmental sustainability activities and a behind-the-scenes runway tour.

They also heard directly from industry professionals about the skills and training required to enter the fast-evolving sector.

A highlight of the event was a guest presentation from 16-year-old pilot Byron Waller, who at just 15 became one of the youngest people to complete a supported flight around the world.

The Ballina Schools Group Educational Pathways Program teacher careers head Vanessa Perrin said the event’s growth reflected strong and sustained interest from students.

“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,” she said.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see how much the event has grown and evolved over the years.”

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport manager Julie Stewart said the expo reflected growing enthusiasm among young people for aviation careers.

“Aviation opens doors to incredible opportunities, and it was fantastic to see so many students curious,

engaged, and excited about their futures,” she said.