26 February 2009
Trades training still booming at TAFE
Courtney Layton and Patrick Wood
If there's an upside to the financial downturn, it's centred on education and training.
Pilbara TAFE’s Certificate III in Fitting and Machining class is full to capacity, with 11 first year apprentices starting their first week of studies on Monday.
Lecturer Ron Harvey confirmed that they have a full program at the moment, and are still fielding enquiries from mature-aged apprentices wanting to start the course.
"The interest in apprenticeships remains high," Ron said. "Industry is extremely supportive in ensuring their ranks are properly trained so there is a very strong demand for this type of training."
"At least four in the Certificate III class are here for a refresher more than anything else – so they’re mentoring the others and providing the benefit of their on-the-job experience."
For Courtney Layton, Patrick Wood and Hayes Kunoth, an apprenticeship is still the best way to get a better future and improve their career prospects in the industry.
"I’ve been a Trades Assistant for a few years and learned a lot on the job," said Hayes. "In the end, I was doing virtually the same work as the tradies, but getting much less pay. This will lead to formal recognition for those skills, and the pay packet that goes with it."
Hayes Kunoth
Courtney and Patrick also have their eye on the future, as well as securing their jobs in the interim.
"With an apprenticeship, I hope my job will be safer in any downturn," said Patrick. "I want to work offshore one day and earn the big bucks and I know a trade is the quickest way to get there."
Courtney too is looking ahead for more opportunities. "This is my ticket to working overseas as well anywhere in Australia," he says. "I want to travel when I finish my apprenticeship and, with a trade, I reckon I’ve got a much better chance of working anywhere in the world."
Ron Harvey says that despite the bleak forecasts, industry is upholding its commitment to trades training.
"Apprenticeships are vital for Australia’s economy," he says. "With industry’s support, we’re equipping these students with solid theoretical foundations as well as on-the-job training, so they’ll graduate with work-ready skills which are highly valued by employers."
For more information on apprenticeships at Pilbara TAFE, call 1300 304 244.
Media Contact: Kate Duff, Marketing & Communications
(08) 9159 6712
Kate.duff@pilbaratafe.wa.edu.au