Students learn the tricks of the trades
The buzz in today’s trades workshop at Thuringowa State High School was not just the machinery. It was also the chatter between students and experienced tradespeople from South32 as they discussed the potential of a trades career.
The Tradie for a Day workshop was delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) with the support of South32. The QMEA is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).
The workshop was attended by a group of enthusiastic Year 10 students from Thuringowa State High School.
Thuringowa SHS Principal, Peter Stumer, said the students were excited to have a day developing their skills and discussing career ideas.
“Days like this can be pivotal for Year 10 students as they consider their study and career pathway for senior school,” said Mr Stumer.
South32 Cannington Vice President Operations Joe Russell said, “We hope the workshop provide a good insight into the work that we do at Cannington and across the South32 Group, producing commodities that are critical for the transition to a low carbon future.
“Workshops like today are a chance to give back to the community and identify the students who might be interested in joining our workforce as future apprentices.”
QRC Director of Skills, Education and Training, Katrina-Lee Jones said there was an ongoing demand for trade roles in the resources and energy sector.
“We know that our industry has a continual demand for tradespeople, including roles like diesel fitters, mechanics and electricians,” said Ms Jones.
“Companies like South32 are keen to invest in young people to complete an apprenticeship with the potential of retaining them as experienced tradespeople who will play an important role in their future workforce,” said Ms Jones.
“This s a win for the students, a win for the company and a win for the resources sector.”