Click here for the Dysart SHS trade workshop photos.

Click here for the Moranbah SHS trade workshop photos.

Year 10 students at Moranbah and Dysart State High Schools have enjoyed intensive trade workshops thanks to BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) and the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

The Tradies for a Day workshop was designed to give the students an insight into the role of a tradesperson on a mine site and give them a chance to develop their skills under the coaching of experienced BMA tradies.

Jen Hoyle, Acting Director – QMEA, said the trade workshops provided a great connection point between local students and industry representatives.

“Hearing career stories from people working in the resources industry can have a big impact on the students,” said Ms Hoyle.

“Making connections while working together to complete mechanical, electrical and operational challenges provides a great environment for the students to ask questions and discover new skills.”

Moranbah State High School principal, Anna Osborn, said the Year 10 students were keen to get fresh career insights.

“Experiences like this give the students greater clarity about the work opportunities available to them in the Bowen Basin,” said Ms Osborn.

“The Tradies for a Day workshop gave them a perfect blend of practical skills and career insights, I’m sure plenty of the students have been inspired to continue their VET studies and pursue their apprenticeship goals,” she said.

“I appreciate the effort the BMA team have made to prepare for the workshop, including developing a new plumbing activity for the students.”

The Moranbah students were joined by Year 12 student and QMEA Student Ambassador Ethan Clothier, who also hopes to join the resources sector in a trade role after school.

“My dream is to get an electrical apprenticeship in the mines after school,” said Ethan.

“Talking with the BMA team today has given me some valuable information about the trade roles needed on a site and the BMA apprenticeship program.”

The future is looking good for Ethan and other VET students with experienced tradespeople continuing to be in demand across the resources sector.

For more information on careers in the resources and energy sectors visit: shapeourfuture.com.au