On Tuesday Students in Years 9 and 10 were visited by Matt and Austin from the Master Builder’s Association of Tasmania.

The construction industry is a major employer in Tasmania. The purpose of the visit was to give an oversight of apprenticeships in the industry and to ensure students are equipped to supply the labour needs of the future.

Key messages the students received included:

The vital importance of work experience in the industry at Year 10 level.
Achieving good grades in Maths and English
Having a positive attitude
Being willing to learn and to work
Ensuring a resume and cover letter highlights your interest in construction
Doing an apprenticeship is a pathway to university and it gives the background practical skills to engineers, architects and project managers.
Many of the key large construction companies in Tasmania are owned by people who were apprentices, such as Royce Fairbrother, head of Fairbrother Construction.
All employers employ on merit and the industry provides a good pathway for all students, not only boys.

I am available to assist with determining if a career in construction or any other apprenticeship is for you by providing resources and career interest surveys, as well as helping with work experience.

Alison Whiteley — Careers Counsellor