The Riverina is producing some top-notch apprentices at a time when the jobs market is getting ever-more competitive.
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Research has revealed that apprentices and trainees are more likely to be employed full-time than university graduates six months after they complete their studies.
Apprenticeship approvals increased by more than 20,000 in the last financial year, up 17 per cent.
Wagga mum Kirby Schultz already had a young family when she decided to pursue a career in human resources through a traineeship rather than going to university.
“The reason I decided to do it through TAFE and not university was that I had a young family and needed to continue working,” Ms Schultz said. “It was an easy way to work full time and study after hours and I could use what I’d studied on job, which made it easier.”
Despite the delicate balancing act, Ms Schultz was so successful she was named the Riverina’s Vocational Student of the Year at the 2016 NSW Training Awards.
“It really opened doors for me,” Ms Schultz said. “The support I had from my family was amazing, my husband would take care of the kids while I did my work online at night.”
Vocational education teacher Tom Pulver, who was named Teacher of the Year at last year’s awards, said for many students, university wasn’t the only option.
“The vast majority attend vocational education institutions to do a trade or work while they study,” Mr Pulver said. “It meets the needs of so many students and they’re more engaged because they’re doing what interests them.”
Ben Foley from NSW Business Chamber said there was a clear edge for apprentices and trainees.
“Research shows apprentices and trainees are more likely to be in full-time employment six months after finishing their course than university graduates,” Mr Foley said.
“We would encourage more and more people to consider them as viable career paths.”
The Riverina Vocational Education and Training Committee is seeking nominations for the 2017 NSW Training Awards.
Committee chair Wendy Cooper said the awards highlight the depth and diversity of talent and skill in the region.
“We encourage individuals and organisations to enter to acknowledge and celebrate their outstanding achievements,” Mrs Cooper said.
“It underlines a commitment to quality of services and skills by local business and industry in the Riverina.”
Those entering the 2017 NSW Training Awards will need to meet certain eligibility requirements and complete an official entry form. The closing date for entries is Friday, March 17.
For more information on the awards, visit www.training.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 306 999 or 02 6937 7600.
Apprentices and trainees are more likely to be in full-time employment six months after finishing their course than university graduates.
- Ben Foley