The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce brought together students, school leavers and job seekers from across the Islands for its annual ‘Careers, Education and Training Expo’, held on Friday, 27 March at the Sir Vassell Johnson Auditorium at the University College of the Cayman Islands.
A flagship initiative of the Chamber for more than three decades, the Careers Expo builds on a legacy dating back to the early 1990s, when the organisation began hosting job fairs, career exploration sessions, interview preparation workshops, and resume-writing programmes. Today, the event continues to evolve as a cornerstone platform that connects education with employment and prepares Caymanians for the future of work.
This year’s expo attracted 43 Chamber member businesses and public-sector employers, representing a broad cross-section of industries, including healthcare, law, financial services, banking, construction, technology, human resources, retail and more. Exhibitors provided valuable insights into career pathways, as well as information on scholarships, internships, apprenticeships and professional development opportunities.
The event forms part of the Chamber’s ‘Building a Future-Ready Workforce’ advocacy pillar, which emphasises the importance of early exposure to careers, skills development and adaptability in a rapidly changing global economy.
Chamber CEO Wil Pineau said, “For more than 30 years, the Chamber has been at the forefront of connecting education with employment –through career fairs, training programmes and hands-on workshops that prepare individuals for the workforce. This expo reflects that legacy, as well as our responsibility to adapt continuously,” he said.
He added, “The nature of work is changing rapidly, driven by technology, global competition and evolving business models. Our role is not simply to replicate what has been done before, but to anticipate what comes next – ensuring that Cayman’s workforce is equipped with the skills, mindset and opportunities needed to succeed in a more complex and dynamic environment.”
Chamber President-Elect Cristina Spratt said, “Careers are rarely linear, and that is something students should embrace rather than fear. My own journey has taken me from teaching to IT, into project management, business development, and leadership and now into national advisory work. Each step added new skills and perspectives that shaped my career.
Your first job does not define you – but it does equip you. What matters is how you build on those experiences, remain curious and continue to grow.”
She also emphasised the importance of engaging with emerging trends, particularly the impact of technology and artificial intelligence on the workforce.
“We are entering a period of profound transformation. The jobs of the future will require not only technical knowledge but also critical thinking, adaptability and ethical judgment. The ability to learn quickly and work alongside technology will define success in the years ahead.
Events like this are essential because they give students real exposure – real conversations with professionals who can help them better understand where opportunities exist and how to prepare for them,” she said.
Exhibitors reported strong engagement throughout the day, with students asking thoughtful and informed questions about qualifications, skills and long-term career progression.
Althea Zelaya, HR manager at Kirk Market, said, “One of the reasons I love working at Kirk Market is because of the people. It’s a positive, supportive environment where individuals can grow and build meaningful careers over time.”
Industry associations also underscored the importance of early engagement. Danielle Hennings of Cayman Finance said, “Events like the Chamber Careers Expo allow us to connect directly with students and demonstrate the many pathways available in the financial services sector. It helps break down misconceptions and opens doors.”
Technology careers were also a strong focus. Phillip Lui, education manager at TechCayman, added, “We are showcasing both existing and emerging technology careers in Cayman, while also promoting accessible education programmes that support lifelong learning – from students to adults.”
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