HKSTP "Talent Power Up" I&T Career Expo 2024 draws over 6,000 visitors

On 8 March 2024, thousands of job seekers flocked to explore opportunities in the innovation and technology (I&T) industry during the career expo, which featured over 3,000 vacancies. More than half of the visitors were interviewed on-site.

In a record-setting turnout, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) hosted the annual “Talent Power Up” I&T Career Expo 2024, witnessing over 6,000 visitors eager to engage with the vibrant tech industry. This landmark event showcased over 3,000 job vacancies from upwards of 300 participating companies, marking a significant stride in strengthening Hong Kong’s talent reservoir for the I&T sector.

Mr Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP, emphasized the paramount significance of human resources as the key driving force behind Hong Kong’s evolution into an international technology innovation hub. “It is imperative that we work together to elevate human resources as Hong Kong’s foremost asset. Hong Kong aims to be a premier technology innovation hub in China. Our strength lies in our pool of talented individuals,” Wong proclaimed, expressing gratitude for the attendees’ active participation and encouraging them to seize the numerous opportunities presented during the event.
 

A hotbed for innovation: over half of attendees interviewed on the spot

The expo not only offered a glimpse into the future of technology but also facilitated immediate engagement by conducting over 3,000 one-on-one interviews onsite. With a focus on strategic industries like AI, biotechnology, and green tech, the event served as an effective interface for local and international talent to connect with leading tech enterprises.

Wong elaborated on the obligation to stay abreast of current technology trends and foster a mentality of constant curiosity and adaptability. “Rather than an option, it’s an obligation for us to be aware of not just our capabilities in the current technology trends, but also our constant curiosity in adapting to changes and that mentality is the key to thrive in this fast-and-faster growing digital age,” he remarked.
 

Debut of the “StartUP Power Hub”: igniting entrepreneurial spirits

This year’s expo saw the introduction of the “StartUP Power Hub,” a zone dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial ambitions among the younger generation. Over 30 successful startup founders shared their journeys, offering insights and encouraging participants to explore innovative ventures within HKSTP’s supportive ecosystem, such as various incubation programs provided by HKSTP.
 

Demystifying AI: a journey into the future of technology

The event emphasized the importance of adapting to the rapidly evolving digital landscape, particularly the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Through workshops with global AI giants like AWS, LinkedIn, and Google, attendees are provided with the chance to equip themselves with the skills necessary to navigate and excel in the digital era.
 

A commitment to nurturing talent: HKSTP’s vision for Hong Kong

Wong also highlighted HKSTP’s dedication to upskilling the local workforce to meet the demands of a growing digital world. The success of the expo underscores Hong Kong’s emerging status as a leading I&T hub and its commitment to fostering a robust pipeline of tech talent essential for future growth.
 

Beyond the expo: engaging the tech community

Complementing the main event, a series of activities and sessions throughout the Science Park drew in over 800 participants. These included immersive experiences and insights from tech pioneers, such as SenseTime, Deloitte Digital, and HKSTP x ARROW Hardware Lab further solidifying Hong Kong’s position as a fertile ground for I&T development.
 

Interview insights: voices from the floor

During the career expo, The Standard also conducted interviews with attendees and stakeholders to find out the expo’s impact from a multi-faceted view.

During one of the interviews, two participants from mainland China, beneficiaries of the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) and Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS), shared their positive experiences working in Hong Kong. They emphasized the meaningful nature of their jobs and expressed gratitude for the career expo’s role in providing ample opportunities for job seekers to engage directly with potential employers.

From the employers’ perspective, Ms Winsome Leung, Human Resources Director, Southern China, Deloitte, emphasized their search for candidates possessing qualities such as agility, teamwork, and leadership skills, highlighting the equal importance of both local and non-local talents. Similarly, Ms Natalie Yuan, the founder of Profind, focused on recruiting young talent, particularly university students, seeking candidates with strong communication skills, agility, diligence, and a willingness to learn and adapt to the fast-paced industry.

Job seekers, including Melody, a third-year political science student from the City University of Hong Kong, praised the expo for the diversity of jobs it offered. Despite her non-STEM background, she found the career expo encouraging and enlightening, offering insights into the tech industry and the potential internship opportunities it provides.

The 2024 I&T Career Expo served as a platform for job seekers and companies to connect. The expo also highlighted the city’s thriving ecosystem and its endless possibilities. With the support of HKSTP and the wider tech community, Hong Kong is well-poised to usher in a new era of innovation and growth.

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