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City of Ambition Jobs Fair

On 23 July 2026, SkillsHouse Bradford and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) came together to deliver the City of Ambition Jobs Fair at Bradford City Hall. Running from 10:00am to 2:00pm, the event brought together employers, training providers, and residents from across the district for a day focused on employment, skills development, and career progression. 

The event welcomed over 425 attendees and featured 25 employers and training organisations, providing a wide range of opportunities for job seekers, career changers, and individuals looking to access training and support. 

Attendees had the opportunity to meet directly with employers, discuss live vacancies, explore training options, and gain practical advice to support their next steps into employment. The event created a welcoming environment where residents could build confidence, make valuable connections, and access opportunities all under one roof. 

Google Delivers AI-Powered Job Search Sessions 

A key highlight of the day was the participation of Google, who delivered three one-hour "AI for Your Job Search" workshops. 

The interactive sessions introduced attendees to practical ways of using AI tools, including Gemini and NotebookLM, to enhance their job search. Participants learned how AI can support them to: 

  • Define career goals and identify transferable skills. 

  • Explore suitable job opportunities through AI-powered brainstorming. 

  • Create stronger CVs that highlight achievements and meet recruitment requirements. 

  • Refine job applications and tailor them to specific roles. 

  • Prepare for interviews using the STAR technique and practice responses with real-time feedback. 

  • Build confidence when applying for jobs and progressing through recruitment processes. 

The workshops were well received and demonstrated how emerging technologies can help residents navigate today's job market more effectively. 

Positive Outcomes for Employers and Job Seekers 

The event delivered immediate results for both businesses and attendees. One notable success story came from McDonald's, who met a candidate at the event that closely matched the requirements for a Shift Leader vacancy. Following discussions at the fair, the candidate was successfully offered the role and was due to start work the following week. 

Attendees also shared positive feedback about the impact the event had on their confidence and career prospects: 

"After leaving school, I wasn't sure what my next steps should be. Attending the City of Ambition Jobs Fair gave me access to invaluable advice and guidance from employers and support organisations. I left feeling much more confident about my future and excited about the opportunities ahead." 

"I had been applying for jobs but wasn't receiving many responses. After attending Google's AI for Your Job Search session, I realised there were ways I could strengthen my CV and tailor my applications more effectively. I now feel much more confident that my applications will stand out and lead to more opportunities." 

These stories highlight the value of bringing together employers, training providers, and support services in one location to help residents take positive steps towards employment and career development. 

Working Together to Create Opportunities 

The success of the City of Ambition Jobs Fair demonstrates the impact of strong partnership working between SkillsHouse Bradford, DWP, employers, and training providers. By bringing opportunities directly to residents, the event helped people explore career options, access support, and take positive steps towards employment and skills development. 

Through collaborative events such as City of Ambition, SkillsHouse Bradford and DWP continue to support local people in achieving their career ambitions while helping employers connect with talented individuals from across the district.