Skip to Content
Need Help Live Chat

Students explore future careers at CIT’s 2026 Skills for Renewables Schools Showcase

Published: 17 Jun 2026

More than 80 high school and college students stepped into the future of work, taking part in the Canberra Institute of Technology’s (CIT) 2026 Skills for Renewables Schools Showcase.

Held at CIT’s Woden campus on 29 May, the event brought together students from Wanniassa High School, St Clare’s College, Kingsford Smith School and the Anglican School Googong to explore what a career in clean energy could look like and how to get there.

The showcase has quickly gained momentum since its start three years ago and attendance has more than doubled since 2025.

By attending the CIT Skills for Renewables Showcase students are encouraged to get involved and try things for themselves. At this one they explored renewable energy technologies through a range of hands-on activities, for example from electric vehicle simulators to solar panels and battery storage systems, and all-electric kitchens.

They also stepped into “Futureville”, an interactive online game that helps students explore career pathways in the rapidly growing and changing renewables job market. For many students, the day’s highlight was seeing how these technologies connect to real-world jobs and opportunities.

“Thank you for this really fun and exciting experience. It was very interesting learning about how Australia is changing and converting to renewables,” one student said.

Teachers also welcomed the chance for their students to experience a practical learning environment, “The practical aspects and demonstrations were great. It was fantastic to get high school and college students involved in a TAFE environment.”

Industry was on hand to speak with students about career pathways and training options. Organisations including MEGT, MAS National, the Australian Training Company, the ACT Careers Association and the Sustainable Schools Program could answer questions and offer advice on everything from apprenticeships to work experience and the direction of future job opportunities.

Industry partners tell us how they value the chance to connect with students early, “It’s a great opportunity to have meaningful conversations with students about future careers in the clean energy sector.”

As the ACT continues its transition to a more electrified and low-carbon future, demand for skilled workers is growing across trades, engineering, technology and related services. Events like the CIT Skills for Renewables Showcase help students see where they fit into that future, linking what they’re learning today to the jobs of tomorrow.

By bringing together schools, industry and educators, CIT is helping young people better understand their options and take their first steps towards careers in one of Australia’s fastest-growing sectors.

Figure 1: The CIT CEO, Dr Margot McNeill welcomes students to the Skills for Renewables Schools Showcase.
Figure 2: Presenting is Fiona Wright, ACT City and Environment Directorate Executive Group Manager.
Figure 3: CIT’s mobile training unit for Solar PV and Battery Storage.
Figure 4: Fully electric commercial kitchen demonstration.
Figure 5: Connecting students with apprenticeships and jobs pathways.