Click here for workshop photos and video.

Trade enthusiasts from Tara Shire State College ditched the laptops and rolled up their sleeves to attend a Tradies for a Day workshop on Wednesday, learning new skills and finding out about apprenticeship opportunities.

Belinda Walker, Principal of Tara Shire State College said the students were excited to have a full day developing different trade skills under the guidance of industry experts.

“Days like this can be pivotal for Year 10 students as they consider their career options and what subjects they should select for their final two years of school,” said Mrs Walker.

The workshop was the first to be delivered at Tara Shire State College by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC). It was made possible with the generous support of Origin Energy, as upstream operator of Australia Pacific LNG.

Origin General Manager, Asset East, Steve Thatcher said the workshop provided a great platform for members of the Origin team to showcase their trade expertise and career experiences to students at a pivotal point in their schooling.

“With the energy sector continually expanding and evolving, we’re eager to inspire young minds and showcase the exciting possibilities for their future contributions to the industry,” Mr Thatcher said.

At yesterday’s workshop at Tara Shire State College, we provided students with a glimpse into careers at Origin, including our power development and renewable energy projects, which depend on a robust trades workforce.”

Katrina-Lee Jones, QRC Director of Skills, Education, and Training, said the day was about developing skills and creating a pathway for students keen on a trades career.

“The resources and energy sector will continue to have a demand for young people who can fill trade roles, including diesel fitters, mechanics, and electricians,” said Ms. Jones.

“This workshop is about developing skills, creating connections with industry and giving the students an idea of what is required to secure an apprenticeship with a company like Origin,” she said.

“They not only completed a circuit of technical skills but also an aptitude assessment designed to reflect the questions in a selection process for an apprenticeship or traineeship.”

“I am sure today has given the students a great foundation to identify their future pathway into a rewarding role in the energy sector.”

The QMEA is an industry-led education initiative and is now in 100 public, private and independent Queensland schools, thanks to support from Qld Resources Council members and industry sponsors. It is part of the Gateway to Industry Schools program supported and funded by the Queensland Government.

For more information about starting a resources career visit: shapeyourfuture.com.au