The search is on for the Riverina’s best apprentices and trainees, at a time when trainees and apprentices are more likely to get full-time employment than university graduates.
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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.
Despite the delicate balancing act, Ms Schultz was so successful she was named the Riverina’s Vocational Student of the Year in 2016.
“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.”
Riverina Vocational Education and Training Committee chair Wendy Cooper said the best and brightest were being sought to represent the region at the 2017 NSW Training Awards.
“The awards highlight the depth and diversity of talent and skill that exist in our state,” Mrs Cooper said. “We encourage individuals and organisations to enter to acknowledge and celebrate their outstanding achievements. It underlines a commitment to quality of services and skills by local business and industry in the Riverina.”
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.”
Apprenticeship approvals increased by more than 20,000 in the last financial year, up 17 per cent.
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.
Apprentices and trainees are more likely to be in full-time employment six months after finishing their course than university graduates.
- Ben Foley
For more information on the awards, visit www.training.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 306 999 or 02 6937 7600.
Stephen Mudd
Stephen Mudd is a journalist for Fairfax Media west of the great divide. He loves music, dogs and travel.
Stephen Mudd is a journalist for Fairfax Media west of the great divide. He loves music, dogs and travel.
