Bridging the Gap: Connect Event links business and computing students with industry

Organised by the Industry Workforce and Careers Teams with support from the Events Team, the event reinforced the institution’s strong commitment to industry-connected learning and career-ready graduates.

Held in Te Puna Events Kitchen, the event brought students and recent graduates face-to-face with employers from across the Business and IT sectors, including Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CA ANZ), Tax Advantage, Baker Tilly Staples Rodway, Auckland Council, Farmers, Plot Potential, CPA Australia, and Netbridge.

The initiative, which has been running annually since 2018, continues to play a key role in helping bridge the gap between study and employment.

Industry Engagement Coordinator Duaa Belgacem says the purpose of the event is to create meaningful connections that support students’ transition into the workforce.

“This event brings together students and recent graduates with industry professionals, creating valuable opportunities for them to build connections and explore career pathways within the Business and IT sectors,” she explains.

Duaa says this year’s event saw strong engagement, with employers actively offering internships and graduate opportunities. Ms Belgacem described the atmosphere as highly positive, with a strong buzz throughout the day.

“The event brought together a group of engaged employers and students, creating valuable opportunities for connection. It was especially encouraging to see industry partners offering real job opportunities, including internships and graduate roles,” she remarked.

While industry participation is always a goal, Ms Belgacem said the event successfully delivered on its core objectives.

“The event successfully achieved its goal of creating meaningful opportunities for students to connect with industry professionals, build networking skills, and explore job opportunities,” she adds.

The success of the event also highlights our ongoing strength in building and maintaining industry relationships.

Feedback from employers and kaimahi (staff) was overwhelmingly positive, with praise for the organisation of the event and the quality of engagement.

“We have received excellent feedback both internally and externally, particularly regarding the organisation of the event. One industry representative even shared how valued she felt due to the high level of planning,” says Ms Belgacem.

Business and Computing kaimahi also noted the high level of student participation, with ākonga confidently engaging with employers and making the most of the opportunity to showcase their skills and aspirations.

Several organisations have already expressed interest in returning for the next Industry Connect event in October.

Ms Belgacem says this reflects the value they see in partnering with our institution and engaging directly with our students, urging them to build on the connections made at the event by continuing to attend career-focused initiatives and taking proactive steps towards their future careers.

“We encourage students to follow up with employers, reflect on their interests, and take proactive steps, such as applying for relevant roles and building key skills to advance their career journey,” she says.

The Business and IT Connect event continues to demonstrate the impact of our industry engagement approach, ensuring students are not only gaining qualifications but also developing the networks, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed beyond study.