“The most exciting part was watching meaningful conversations take place, seeing employers connect with talented candidates and knowing we created a space where opportunities could genuinely take shape.” – Carla Gomez, SCS Blueprint Career Services
Last week, the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS) welcomed hundreds of professionals, job seekers, and lifelong learners to its second annual Career Expo and Networking Event, an energizing day of connections, career insights, and new opportunities.
Created to support professionals and job seekers in their career development journey, and open to the public, the Expo offered a unique mix of networking opportunities, guest speakers, workshops, and professional services, including free headshot sessions.
The event reflects SCS’s commitment to supporting learners beyond the classroom, by connecting education with career pathways.
“So many of our learners come to us wanting to address gaps in their resumes, which can often be remedied with an SCS course or certificate. This expo is our way of helping them take the next step by exploring career options and building real-world connections,” says Juan Mavo-Navarro, Assistant Dean, Lifelong Learning & Innovation.
A highlight of this year’s event was the Talent Wars: Recruitment & Career Development Across Industries panel, which brought together senior leaders from across sectors for a dynamic and insightful discussion. Featuring Amanda Ono, Global Head of People at Kroll; Cristine Couch, Director, Future of Work at BMO; and Kim Ferreira, VP Talent Development at PointClickCare, the panel explored topics such as future-proofing your career, evolving recruitment strategies, succession planning, and the changing needs of employers. The conversation offered attendees valuable perspectives on navigating today’s complex labour market.
“Organizing this year’s Career Expo was truly energizing,” adds Carla Gomez, SCS Blueprint Career Services Program Administrator.
“The most exciting part was watching meaningful conversations take place, seeing employers connect with talented candidates and knowing we created a space where opportunities could genuinely take shape.”
The exhibitor hall featured 23 employers across sectors including finance, education, and government, all keen to connect with emerging and experienced talent and share insights into evolving industry needs. Participating organizations included Windmill Mircrolending, Lactalis Canada, University Pension Plan, Children's Aid Society of Toronto, Globe & Mail, Royal Canadian Navy, Liberty Mutual, Desjardins Insurance, Onyx Fire Protection Services, Community Living Toronto, CAA, WoodGreen Community Services, Achev, and Youth Employment Services.
“Attending the University of Toronto Career Expo was a valuable networking experience that allowed me to connect with students, professionals, and fellow exhibitors from a wide range of fields,” shares Vanessa Molai Persaud of Community Living Toronto.
“The experience enabled me to build strong connections and expand my professional network, which I look forward to maintaining. Overall, the event was well-organized and highly rewarding.”
Engaging workshops and guest speaker discussions gave attendees direct access to industry experts, who shared career journeys and practical insights on emerging topics, including how to thoughtfully integrate AI into the workplace.
For many participants, the Expo provided a rare opportunity to explore new career directions, expand their networks, and gain practical insights – all in a single day.
Attendee Sanya Sethi congratulated SCS on the success of the event. “What a blend of employer showcase, expert panel discussion, workshops and keynote speakers!,” she said. “The energy in the room was a testament to the effort.”
The success of this year’s Expo underscores the growing demand for accessible, career-focused learning and connection opportunities.
For more information on how SCS can help you reach your career goals, please visit our Blueprint Career Services page.
