The first-ever wind energy job and education fair for post-primary students in County Wexford and Arklow was a resounding success. Sponsored by SSE Renewables and organized by Wind Energy Ireland, County Wexford Chamber of Commerce, and Senator Malcolm Byrne, the event attracted over 480 students from local schools, including Arklow's Glenart College, St Mary's College, Gaelcholáiste na Mara, and Arklow CBS.

Held on Tuesday, September 24th at the Amber Springs Hotel, the fair provided students with the opportunity to connect with professionals from various sectors of the wind energy industry. They learned about the diverse range of roles and career opportunities available within this growing field.

Senator Malcolm Byrne said: "There will be incredible opportunities for Ireland and particularly along the East Coast with offshore renewables. It will mean energy security for the country as well as Ireland potentially becoming an energy exporter. It is vital that we have the skilled individuals to grow this sector so getting young people to think now about careers in wind is essential. I hope that this is an annual careers event, and that the success of this year can be built upon."

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SSE Renewables Community Engagement Manager on the Arklow Bank Wind Park 2 project Deirdre Keogh said: "SSE Renewables was delighted to sponsor and exhibit at the 'Wind in Wind' event. Our team on the day highlighted the myriads of roles, pathways, and opportunities offered in the wind industry. Our own team at the event from across the consenting, engineering and corporate affairs disciplines, illustrated that working in the wind sector goes far beyond what one might think. In addition to chatting about career pathways, we shared information about our flagship Arklow Bank Wind Park 2 offshore project, which if consented, will bring economic investment, employment, and career opportunities to the Wicklow and Wexford region and help drive the transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for these and other young people. Our 3-D simulation of the Arklow Bank Wind Park 2 offshore development site garnered particular interest from students and the day proved to be very worthwhile."