Since 2020, Hertfordshire Futures’ Generation careers fairs have connected over 17,590 young people and parents (as of September 2025) with local employers and training providers to find out about career opportunities in their local area.

These events, delivered in partnership with Hertfordshire Careers Hub, local authorities and Hertfordshire Opportunities Portal (HOP), have become a cornerstone of the county’s strategy to raise aspirations and build a motivated local workforce.

Generation Stevenage 2025, held at Knebworth Barns, was the largest event to date, welcoming 1,300 students from 19 schools. With 70 exhibitors showcasing opportunities across global sectors, the event offered targeted student engagement during the day and a twilight session for families. It was praised by local leaders for its vibrant atmosphere and its role in strengthening employer-school relationships.

Earlier events such as Generation Hitchin in 2021 received national recognition, with then-Minister for Skills Alex Burghart describing it as “at the heart of the Government’s agenda on opportunity”. These events have consistently provided meaningful encounters with employers, helping students explore pathways including apprenticeships, technical routes and vocational training.

The Generation programme continues to evolve, with nine events planned for the 2025-26 academic year across districts including Dacorum, Hertford, Hertsmere and Watford. Each event is locally led and supported, ensuring relevance to community needs and employer demand.