Ireland’s sole event specifically designed to support and guide emergency services and military personnel on the look-out to advance within their current roles, find new opportunities following retirement, or seeking totally new careers – ‘Out of the Blue Career Horizons Expo’ – will take place on Friday 5 September at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Athlone.
Since its inception in April 2024, the ‘Out of the Blue Emergency Services & Military Expo’ has become an invaluable resource for Ireland’s dedicated service members as they navigate their next career steps, according to Stephen Moore, who founded Out of the Blue Training & Employment Services in late 2023.
The former Garda has 20 years of experience working in An Garda Síochána, where he trained over 2,000 Gardaí on interview techniques. A former Divisional Representative with the Garda Representative Association (GRA), Moore is “passionate about helping members of the emergency services and the defence forces to transition to new careers”.
He said he understands that leaving or retiring from the emergency services or military can be a “daunting task” and added that he is committed to providing these individuals with the support and guidance they need to succeed.
His company’s fourth ‘Out the Blue Careers Horizons Expo is now set for 5 September in Athlone, following the first three successful events held in April and November 2024, and most recently on 4 April at the RDS, which was officially opened by the then Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain.
Pictured at the ‘Out of the Blue Careers Expo’ in the RDS on 4 April 2025, Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain and Stephen Moore, founder of Out of the Blue Training & Employment Services, with a member of the Defence Forces.
“It stands as the nation’s sole event specifically designed to support the brave men and women who serve their country across the emergency services and military sectors. This event in Athlone promises to offer an even more comprehensive experience.
“A highlight of the expo is the opportunity to receive free career guidance from a host of superb career coaches, offering personalised support at every stage of a service member’s journey,” he added.
Attendees can look forward to a day offering a range of insightful keynote speakers and engaging panel discussions, covering crucial topics such as health and wellbeing, upskilling opportunities, transitioning from service and essential financial advice. A dedicated Q&A session will also provide a platform for interaction with both serving and retired members, alongside industry leaders and educational institutions.
“This Athlone Expo promises an even more comprehensive experience, catering to a diverse audience including those considering a career in service, individuals seeking advancement within their current roles, those planning their transition into retirement, or seeking new careers,” according to Moore.
Up to 50 exhibitors will be there to showcase their array of services. “These include companies actively seeking to hire former service personnel, financial institutions offering tailored advice, government agencies, in addition to numerous educational institutions presenting free and heavily subsidised courses. Health and wellbeing experts will also be on hand to provide vital support.”
Adding to the extensive offerings this time around, ‘Out of the Blue Recruitment’ will officially launch at the expo in Athlone. This new initiative will allow service members who are on the look-out for post-service career opportunities to sign up on the day, further streamlining their transition into civilian life.
“So, whether you’re contemplating a career in uniform or nearing the end of your dedicated service, the ‘Out of the Blue Emergency Services & Military Expo’ is an unmissable event. It offers a unique and invaluable opportunity to gain guidance, explore new possibilities, and connect with a supportive community,” Moore concluded.
Tickets are available, free of charge, on Eventbrite.
‘Out of the Blue Recruitment’ will be dedicated solely to emergency services and military personnel considering a full career change, exploring options for later in life, or simply curious about what is out there. The recruitment platform will connect them with suitable employers. For further information email [email protected]
