Students were quizzed by Vince Cable as part of an engineering construction road show.
Teddington School hosted the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) event, designed to introduce young people to career opportunities available to them.
The Twickenham MP and Business Secretary was a surprise guest at the event on Friday, November 16, and spoke to students about the benefits of starting a career in the industry.
He said: "It's great to be able to support the students at Teddington School in this way.
"Engineering construction offers numerous career options to young people and the ECITB schools tour has opened the eyes of these young people to the possibilities of working in this industry."
The road show is designed for students aged 13 to 16 and visits about 150 schools a year to increase awareness of the industry, which is facing a shortfall in workers.
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