Greater Geelong’s next-generation construction workers are getting job-ready, connecting with employers, and preparing to start their apprenticeships confidently.
A showcase hosted by Apprenticeships Victoria was held at The Gordon’s East Geelong campus on August 5 to demonstrate the skills of construction apprentices.
Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney said the showcase was also an important way for students and graduates from pre-apprenticeship courses in carpentry, electrotech and plumbing to connect with employers.
“For many of Victoria’s tradies, a pre-apprenticeship course through our Free TAFE program is the all-important first step on the pathway to a rewarding career,” she said.
“The Gordon’s pre-apprenticeship event with Apprenticeships Victoria is a fantastic example of training providers, industry and government working together to build the pipeline of skilled workers that Victoria needs.”
The Gordon chief executive Joe Ormeno said some apprentices can struggle to find the right employer or make the right connections to start their apprenticeships.
“Pre-apprenticeships change lives. They build confidence, spark ambition, and connect students with real-world employers,” he said.
“At The Gordon, we’re proud to partner with Apprenticeships Victoria to open doors to meaningful careers and to strengthen the skilled workforce our region and state depend on.”
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said it was great to see Geelong students getting hands-on experience and connecting with potential future employers.
“This showcase highlights the real-world value of pre-apprenticeship training,” she said.
“(It’s) giving students practical experience, connecting them with employers, and setting them up for a successful start in their chosen trade.”
Apprenticeship pathway courses, commonly known as pre-apprenticeships, allow students to experience hands-on training and learn what working in a particular industry is like.
According to Apprenticeships Victoria, students who complete a pre-apprenticeship are 16 per cent more likely to finish their apprenticeships.
More than 206,000 students have also benefited from the state’s Free TAFE program since 2019, according to the state government.
Visit apprenticeships.vic.gov.au for more information about apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships.
