Following two triumphant career exhibitions in the last two years, SkillCity Highland 2006 was launched today (Tuesday 12th September 2006) at the Highland Football Academy and Ross County Football Club, Dingwall.

Organised by Careers Scotland and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), the three-day event takes place in a vibrant career city divided into six high-energy zones. The interactive displays provided by each exhibitor capture the essence of what it's like to take on a career in anything from the armed forces, retail and renewable energy, to construction, media, forestry, hospitality - and much more.

Figures for both exhibitors and visitors are up this year, reflecting the increasing popularity of SkillCity within the career culture. Around 80 businesses and organisations from across the Highlands and Islands are taking part, offering exciting career tasters to over 3,500 students from high schools across the region.

This format has proved itself so dynamic and successful that this year, SkillCity is opening its doors for an evening extension tomorrow, Wednesday, between 6.00 pm and 8.00 pm. The extra session is designed to attract pupils with daytime commitments, parents helping young career seekers, and adult returners or those who've reached a career crossroads. 

Alex Paterson, director of developing skills at HIE, officially launched the proceedings at a lunchtime event, in the company of Sandy MacKenzie, business development manager of key sponsors Tulloch plc. Nairn Academy Salsa Band played a lively Latin American selection, setting an upbeat tone for the subsequent foray into SkillCity's interactive centre.

Alex Paterson said: "There's no question that this year's SkillCity will continue to broaden its appeal and influence among young career seekers. This is evidenced by the increased numbers of both exhibitors and visitors.

"I'm also confident that the evening session will prove that SkillCity's interactive format will have just as big an attraction.

"No other career event in Scotland offers such a broad range of opportunities for pupils to meet employers, trainers and education providers as well as trying their hand at so many activities."

This year's visitors to SkillCity Highland can pitch in at the bungee jump, scale the 30' climbing wall in the Armed Forces Zone, DJ for MFR, have a go at professional photography, run a busy reception desk, get to grips with renewable energy, or take on the responsibility of running a high street store. In total, there are 80 plus career challenges waiting for eager participants to try.

Sandy MacKenzie, speaking on behalf of key sponsors Tulloch plc, commented: "SkillCity is continuing to prove its worth to a broad range of young people determined to find the right career direction. SkillCity inspires young people to get out there and show the world what they can achieve - and we're proud to give it all the support we can."

In closing, Alex Paterson said: "It's great to see SkillCity back again, and watch it create the same sense of energy and purpose it's done in the past. With new career options being presented each year, SkillCity is proving that a winning formula can still keep moving forward to reflect developing career opportunities as they emerge."