Sheffield set to host radically different careers expo to help connect young people with real routes into the built environment

Taking place at Coles, the former John Lewis building at Barkers Pool, FORM is a one-day event for college and university students, and recent graduates aged 16–25, who want to explore how the places we live are designed, built and managed.

Unlike traditional careers fairs, FORM removes corporate stands, CV drop-offs and awkward networking. Instead, the day is built around short talks, guided activities, and open conversations, connecting students directly with people working across architecture, construction, design, engineering, planning, project management, and the trades.

The one-day event aims to make career routes clearer, more accessible and more relatable, helping young people understand the real journeys into work, while supporting Sheffield employers facing growing skills shortages and talent retention challenges.

FORM has been created by brand agency Peter & Paul, in collaboration with employers, educators and industry partners across the city, and is supported by the Sheffield Property Association.

The initiative has also been delivered in partnership with a wide network of local organisations, including Sheffield City Council, Nineteen47, Homes by Honey, CMS, Urban Splash, Chapter II, Influence, Turner & Townsend, Pinders and Studio Jim.

Kat Holland, managing director of Peter & Paul, said: “FORM was designed to be different because traditional careers fairs no longer reflect how young people actually find their way into work.

“It brings young people face to face with people doing the jobs, using real career journeys and practical activities to make routes into the built environment clearer and more accessible.

“The focus is on curiosity, conversation and hands-on learning - creating an experience that feels relevant and engaging.”

Rebecca Knight, director of the Sheffield Property Association, added: “Employers across Sheffield are facing real skills and talent challenges, and there’s still this idea that you have to head to Manchester or London to build a successful career in the built environment. That just isn’t true - there’s so much happening here.

“FORM helps young people see the range of opportunities available locally and imagine a future for themselves in Sheffield. It’s about employers, educators and the city working together to grow talent and support the long-term future of Sheffield’s built environment.”

For more information about FORM, visit: https://www.formcareersexpo.com/

To book tickets, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/form-careers-expo-tickets-1980645805923