CAFRE hosts Equine Careers Fair to connect students with industry opportunities

Michaela McBurnie from the Meadows Equestrian Centre with students Emma Brow (Hillsborough) and Ellie Getty (Cloughmills).

The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) has brought industry and education together at its Enniskillen Campus, hosting an Opportunities in Equine Careers Fair as part of its annual Careers Day to support students planning their future in the equine sector.

The Opportunities in Equine Careers Day was designed to help students develop employability skills while gaining direct access to employers across the industry.

The event welcomed almost 30 organisations, offering CAFRE Equine students the chance to explore placement roles, graduate opportunities and wider career pathways.

Equine Careers Fair links students with employers

Equine Specialist Adviser at Teagasc, Sean Keane chats to Michelle-Claudia Rovinaru about equine career opportunities.

During the Careers Fair, exhibitors showcased their organisations and outlined upcoming opportunities within the equine industry. Students were able to speak one-to-one with employers, gaining insight into day-to-day roles and the skills required to succeed in professional equine careers.

Event organiser Gayle Moane, Equine Lecturer at CAFRE, said:

“The purpose of Careers Day is to further develop our students’ employability skills. By facilitating engagement with industry representatives, we aim to support their smooth progression into professional roles within the equine sector.”

Her colleague and co-organiser Chris Bogues, Equine Lecturer at CAFRE, added:

“We were delighted to have almost 30 organisations present. The day demonstrated to our students the excellent support we receive from the industry locally, across the island and wider afield.

Jane Elliott, Head of Equine, CAFRE with Vice Chairperson of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Shirley Hawkes hear about career opportunities from Terri Brosnan, Stewarts Care Regional Equine Therapy Hub.

“Meeting people who work in the sector helps our students understand what day-to-day roles involve.

“Talking to business representatives allows them to explore the wide range of jobs available, compare roles across different organisations and discover pathways they may never have considered.”

Supporting students into professional equine careers

The presence of representatives from a broad range of equine businesses and organisations provided students with practical guidance as they consider their next steps.

CAFRE Equine staff enjoyed a catch up with Emma English, CAFRE graduate who is completing an internship with ITBA.

For many, the opportunity to engage directly with employers offered clarity on career progression and potential further study options.

By bringing industry professionals onto campus, CAFRE aims to ensure students are equipped with the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their futures within the equine sector.

CAFRE Open Day at Enniskillen Campus

Prospective students interested in studying for an Equine qualification this September are invited to attend the next Open Day at Enniskillen Campus on Saturday, 7 March 2026.

Further information and booking details are available in the events section of: www.cafre.ac.uk.