blueprint australian industry trade college
BORROW YOUR BOARDROOM + 15
The importance of education in industry
GOLD COAST CARNIVAL DAY + 20
A vibrant approach to VET projects
SOAP BOX DERBY + 22
Project based learning at the Sunshine Coast
EDUCATION ROUNDUP + 26
SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR + 32
Congratulations to Ella
SIGN-UPS + 33
Celebrating the outstanding performance of our young people
IN THEIR OWN WORDS + 38
Meet students from different campuses
SHARK PLUMBING + 40
CJ joins a dynamic team
FIRST TO JOIN HEALTH INDUSTRY + 42
Georgette shows great resilience
AITC STUDENT CHAMPION + 44
FROM THE CEO + 4
Not all schools are the same
MPAQ AWARDS + 6
Celebrating Plumbing and Gas
What’s been happening at our Redlands campus
PLANNING FOR THE REAL WORLD + 28
The future of healthier schools
INTERVIEWING TECHNIQUES + 30
Learning from professionals at the Gold Coast
Engage and empower!
AITC PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR + 45
Will from Redlands has got what it takes
MODNPODS FIRST AITC SCHOOL BASED APPRENTICE + 48
Congratulations to Corey
FUTURE OF TRADE + 50
Training the next generation of workers
GATEWAY TO INDUSTRY SCHOOLS PROGRAM + 52
Making long-term connections
AROUND CAMPUS + 54
Snaps from our six campuses
SHAVE FOR A CURE + 57
An event driven from the heart
GIFT OF GIVING + 57
Young people lending a hand
Our employees are dedicated to seeing our young people succeed. With over 1100 students across six locations, what remains consistent is that we all believe that each young person needs to find their purpose and passion.
I hope you enjoy reading these pages which reinforce that our young people are becoming confident, skilled and educated as they prepare to be future industry leaders. We continue to build on relationships with industry such as Llewellyn Motors, B&R Enclosures and April Ford who are featured in this edition.
At the AITC, we also know that it is important our young people think beyond themselves. Gift of giving projects allow our students to provide assistance to others, in a hands-on practical way. Congratulations to our Toowoomba campus who also raised over $7000 for the World’s Greatest Shave, proving that they are a small but mighty campus.
I would like to acknowledge Renee Michalkow who has been with the AITC for close to 2 years as our Media and Communications Officer. Renee is
incredibly passionate about capturing as many stories about our young people as possible. She is always a smiling face (behind her camera) and loves being out and about, visiting campuses and sharing our news. Thank you also to other contributors in this edition; Glenn English and the team at the Small and Mighty Group.
The future is very bright at the AITC. Watch this space…
Rebecca Reis EDITORIt is always such an enjoyable season for me to read over the stories about our unique young people and the brilliant things they achieve at our College, and in industry.
Deliberately different.AITC CEO
In what has been a turbulent few years with the global pandemic, we are thankful that the AITC has moved forward stronger to connect young people with industry and industry with great young people. With over 1000 young people enrolled across six campuses in 2022, it is evident that we have the support of our extended community comprised of young people, families, employers and industry partners.
As we look to 2023, we can proudly reflect on some of the new programs which kicked off in 2022 in response to industry need; the AITC x Protech Academy and the Equine Industry QuickStart program. You can enjoy reading about these unique offerings and the exceptional young people who have found their passion pursuing a specialist pathway, including some who are signed-up already!
We are proud that in addition to these programs, two other academies will be launched in 2023 to allow young people to pursue a career following certain pathways (the Energy Academy and the Boating Industry Academy). I look forward to sharing more about all of our academies in the next edition of Blueprint.
In addition to the everyday successes we celebrate, we are also very proud of our students who are recognised externally for their achievements. Congratulations to CJ, Hayden and Levi who were announced by Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ)
BRISBANE CAMPUS OPENED JANUARY 2022
as finalists for the School-based Apprentice of the Year in the Plumbing and Gas Awards. A huge congratulations to Cody from Super Bowl Plumbing who was crowned the winner.
Congratulations also to 2022 graduate Ella O’Shannessy who was awarded the TAFE School-based Apprentice of the Year. Ella is completing a bricklaying apprenticeship and has a very promising career ahead.
These pages fill me with pride as each young person discovers who they are and what they are working towards. From healthcare to carpentry to business, the AITC knows that it is simply about finding what fits and loving what you do.
The Plumbing and Gas Industry Awards recognise the outstanding achievements, hard work, and dedication of Queensland-based individuals and companies.
This year’s winners have broken all expectations through growth, development, community engagement and standards of excellence, making Queensland’s plumbing and gas industry beyond compare.
Presented by Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) in partnership with Event Partner Reliance Worldwide Corporation (RWC), a record-breaking 722 attendees were at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) to celebrate the outstanding achievements made by plumbing and gas individuals and companies across 16 award categories.
CJ Shark Plumbing Hayden Crystal Waters Plumbing & Drainage Levi Progress Plumbing Pty Ltd
Congratulations to our winner Cody for the School-based Apprentice of the Year category and to our finalists CJ, Hayden, Levi (all from our Gold Coast campus).
The award recognises individuals who provide exceptional quality of work to their customers and know how to work well with their work team.
During MPAQ’s 2022 Plumbing and Gas Industry Awards one prestigious award which wasn’t promoted previously was the best mullet of the evening. Congratulations goes to Levi who was awarded a signed Cowboys NRL Telstra Premiership jersey and Toyota bag.
It was tough competition but clearly Levi’s golden mane was the favourite. Host for the ceremony, former AFL player Richard Champion, awarded Levi his prizes. Divina, AITC Lead Industry Consultant, says Levi was the only one on the night to make an acceptance speech — he thanked his mum, his boss and of course the AITC!
The AITC has partnered with the Gold Coast Turf Club and Racing Queensland to develop a bespoke Equine Industry Quickstart (IQ), initially run out of our Robina campus. The tailored program is designed to educate young people to become apprentices and trainees of the highest calibre, specifically for the equine industry.
The racing industry provides a breadth of career opportunities and opportunities in this industry can take a young person as far as overseas or close to home in some pretty amazing roles.
Nathan Reynolds, Start Up Agent (Education) for the AITC says, “the
industry needs a pipeline of educated young people who are ready to engage in technical training. The main aim is to address a skills shortage but, most importantly, provide an opportunity for young people who love horses to begin their career.”
This passion for the industry means “young people who possess the right character values will enrich the industry standard,” explains Nathan.
Young people who are interested in gaining a head start in the racing industry don’t have to choose between finishing school and starting their career. Currently the AITC is enrolling Year 10 and 11 students so they can complete their Year 12 QCE and also gain skills, credentials and networking to be ready for this exciting industry.
Whether interests lie with horses, working outdoors, pursuing a trade
or administration; with an industrydriven education, the right training and unmatched immersion, the Equine IQ program will deliver that crucial head start.
Nathan says young people who are already part of the program “are engaged and keen to learn.” He explains the standard of every young person coming into the program is high. “They are participating in experiences they never thought they would do. The social interactions they have with adults across various worksites is incredibly powerful and valuable.”
The expectation is “young people will complete their Cert II in the racing industry and participate in a managed work experience rotation across all aspects of the industry.”
The Equine Industry QuickStart is a 12-month program integrated into the
blueprint australian industry trade college
established 36-month AITC program. Key incentives for young people are achieving their Cert II in Racing at Aquis Farm and the Gold Coast Turf Club, be part of a managed work experience program, networking with leading industries and have direct access to leading trainers and event managers.
Equine IQ participants will immerse themselves in the many facets of the equine racing industry through site visits, incursions, excursions and work experience. The industry-driven program will connect young people with employers and race clubs for managed work experience, placements and ultimately a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship in their chosen field, all whilst completing high school.
The nature of thoroughbred horse racing makes it one of the most diverse and exciting industries to be involved, offering a range of exciting career opportunities in the fields of global sports, entertainment and trades. The Queensland Racing Industry employs over 11,500* people (*full time or equivalent) across more than 100 venues statewide.
P Finish Year 12 and gain the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)
Complete a Certificate II in Racing P Rotate through various industry roles at Aquis Farm and the Gold Coast Turf Club
• Stable hand, stud hand
• Track rider, track maintenance
• Admin, marketing, event management
• Veterinary
• Stewarding
Commence a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship in the equine industry before graduating P Grow in character and mindset to be a valuable contributor to the industry and to the community
It was clear from the start of her AITC journey that Jenna is an exceptional young woman who has an awesome attitude to everything life throws at her. Jenna has greeted every work experience placement with a happy, can-do work ethic —a demeanour that was noticed by every employer. Unsure of her career choice at first, Jenna knew she wanted to work with animals, and tried vet clinics, pet shops, pet resorts and even a flora fauna spotter catcher! When Jenna began working with horses through our new Equine Industry Quickstart (IQ) program something clicked. With her stablehand apprenticeship Jenna will be working with thoroughbred racehorses at Campton Racing. Trainer, Adam Campton, was thoroughly impressed by Jenna’s hard work, attention to detail, and positivity — which can be hard to muster with a start time of 3.30am. Jenna is the first, but definitely not the last, school-based apprenticeship sign-up of the AITC Equine IQ program. Congratulations to all involved, especially the Gold Coast Turf Club, who played a massive part in making this program possible and they are huge supporters of young people finishing their Year 12 secondary education at the AITC.
Congratulations to Ella who is now Adam Campton Racing’s newest trainee Trackwork Rider. A track-rider is a person who is employed to exercise thoroughbred horses on the instruction of a trainer. The duties require judgement and the ability to communicate the information concerning horse health, performance and temperament accurately to the trainer as well as high level riding skills and ability to interpret and relay information covering a variety of circumstances. This expert advice is critical as it is relied upon in the future training and racing program of the horse. Ella joined our Equine Industry Quickstart (IQ) program at the Robina campus in July this year, with a clear view of the pathway she wanted to take. During her first work experience block, Ella was introduced to Adam Campton, whom she wowed with her excellent equine skills, focus, determination and work ethic. He knew he couldn’t pass her up and offered her a spot on the team. What an exciting industry to be a part of and thank you to our partners at the Gold Coast Turf Club for championing the Equine IQ program and enabling our young people to work with amazing horse trainers like Adam. Best of luck in your career, Ella, and onto Year 12 to get your QCE whilst getting a head start into the racing industry before graduation. The future is bright!
JANUARY OF 2021,
WAS RUN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AITC TO PROVIDE SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINEESHIP OPPORTUNITIES INITIALLY TO TEN PARTICIPANTS.
The civil construction sector is the backbone of Protech’s growth story. National recruitment and training organisation Protech Group first started working with the Australian Industry Trade College 2 years ago, placing almost 10 schoolbased civil construction trainees on a major infrastructure project in the Brisbane CBD – the first of its kind. The young people successfully went on to secure jobs with some of Protech’s big industry clients, making their mark on Brisbane infrastructure at just 18 years of age.
The program was designed to give recruits a chance to experience what life would be like in the civil construction industry, as well as providing the basic skills necessary to thrive in a technical environment. Made even more beneficial to the group of young recruits was the practical on-site training being offered through Protech’s partners CPB Contractors, on one of the largest civil construction projects in Queensland.
From the initial Protech Rookies Program the AITC x Protech Academy was formed and began in July 2022. This is Brisbane’s first industry-driven program for school students wishing to pursue a career with big industry on major projects. Based in Brisbane (at AITC’s Spring Hill campus), the program is for high achievers in hi-vis who have the ambition to work on large-scale construction sites with multimillion-dollar projects. Put simply, the program is a combination of deliberately different education, industrydriven training, and technical expertise to develop apprentices and trainees of the highest calibre, starting in Year 10.
Brad Pinch, AITC’s Start Up Agent (Industry) says, “The AITC X Protech Academy was built to serve industry requirements and meet our promise to connect young people with opportunities in industry and industry with great young people.”
Feedback about the AITC X Protech Academy has been extremely positive from young people and their families.
Brad explains, “due to the staged development of young people within the program, the group is developing quickly. Parents have noticed a commitment from their young person in line with the requirements of the Academy. Young people are immersed in the Protech culture and expectations from day one. Their journey begins when they receive their Protech shirt and from there they become involved in meetings and talks with Protech Managers from around Australia.”
Key management from Protech including Adrian Baker, Protech’s General Manager, come to the AITC and talk about a young person’s potential career journey and the high standards of Protech. “We provide a deliberate and careful exposure to safety standards and best practice for major projects – safety is our first thought.” Brad continues, “they’ve had presentations from Protech’s Work Health and Safety Manager, Kristian Attreed, who gave clear insight into Protech working environments.”
To reach their full potential education plays a vital role in developing AITC X Protech Academy graduates. Managing Director of Protech, Marc Mieli, was at a recent event and spoke to the importance of an education for a long and successful industry career. Marc said, “Education is fundamental… ultimately that’s been part of my success. Finishing Year 12 is a must. It really plays the foundation and the cornerstone for those young people… If they finish Year 12 with the experience that they have, then the world opens up to them. Education is the most important thing… it’s where their life is guided and from there anything is possible.”
To understand the range of industry possibilities young people attend multiple site visits — with general industry and Protech clients. “Young people have seen key presentations from high level Cross River Rail staff and participated in engaging
Cross River Rail site visits,” explains Brad. “A young person explained to Adrian Baker recently, ‘I didn’t think it would be like this. I am learning about industry at the AITC. I thought I would be reading about it — not being a part of it.’.”
Starting in Year 10, students hone their skills through an intensive work-readiness program – with technical training, work experience, and shadowing – before commencing a school-based traineeship in Year 11. Young people spend six weeks per term in school (at our Spring Hill campus) and six weeks in industry.
By Year 12, they will have commenced their career in construction, civil engineering, auto (heavy diesel), mechanical, or ICT, with the opportunity to complete up to 45% of their apprenticeship or traineeship by Year 12 graduation.
“I didn’t think it would be like this. I am learning about industry at the AITC. I thought I would be reading about it — not being a part of it.
The AITC prides itself on being deliberately different. This statement relates to how education is delivered to ensure that the AITC’s students are learning beyond the normal classroom environment.
This year a new initiative was launched by the Australian Industry Trade College (AITC). This initiative provides young people with the opportunity to contextualise their learning in the world of work. Businesses have given up their boardroom for the unique concept, Borrow your Boardroom (BYB), which emphasises the importance of education in industry.
blueprint australian industry trade college
The first BYB began in May when Year 10 students from AITC’s Ipswich campus went to Llewellyn Motors, Booval. Using the backdrop of Llewellyn’s boardroom their AITC teacher, Sonia Peacey, integrated their core subjects into the evolving motoring environment.
Sonia explains there is a huge benefit in bringing education into a business environment. “They were really switched on and engaged having their environment changed. I’m also hoping this will help our young people consider their choices carefully and think more about their place in industry as Year 10 rookies about to embark on their career journey.”
Dave Breeze, Regional Industry Officer (Western), from the AITC has been working on the multi-faceted BYB concept over the past three years. “Borrow your Boardroom is helping our young people understand that, to be successful in industry, they need to finish off their education. This means completing their Year 12 and graduating with their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).”
That’s why BYB isn’t a regular industry excursion— it’s meant to inspire and encourage young people and contextualise their learning. “They have a networking opportunity with industry after finishing their classwork. It’s beneficial for young people to hear from industry leaders about their expectations and getting insight into the world of work,” explains Dave. For rookies who haven’t been out to work experience yet, this lifts the curtain so young people can see the different parts of a big industry.
Brody Russell, Year 10, believes BYB provides a great opportunity for a different learning experience. “We looked at the science of car safety during our boardroom activity. It was interesting to apply
the things we’d learnt in the classroom, such as force, momentum —and understanding how this science is used in motor industries. Especially in the future of keeping people safe on the roads,” says Brody.
Apart from being engaged in a different learning environment BYB also helps young people understand different career opportunities and expectations. “When you drive past a car dealership you don’t see the variety of jobs behind the walls. There’s mechanics, salespeople, marketing, administration. There are more job opportunities than you think.”
Brody says after the visit to Llewellyn’s he realises how important education is to industry. “It’s important to finish Year 12. Companies won’t look at you unless you graduate. Today really gave me the extra motivation and inspiration to keep going. You need your QCE to get a job.”
Launching BYB now is the perfect time because unfortunately, “there is a pull from some employers to take young people out of education to go full time,” explains Dave. “We’re trying to counter that message by saying education comes first and education matters. The more we can get out to industry to support that message with great employers like Llewellyn’s the better it is for young people and industry in the long term.”
Another advantage of BYB is that it helps with character development. “Our young people excel in industry,” says Dave. “It’s also helpful for them to understand the importance of consistency. This means having the same attitude and drive towards education. Consistency is key in becoming successful and employable in industry.”
Jets Leagues Club hosted the Ipswich Year 10 Rookies class for the AITC Borrow your Boardroom initiative. The classroom was swapped for an industry setting to complete College work. This supports AITC’s key messages on the importance of education for young people in the world of work. This also allowed our Rookies to get a glimpse into the hospitality industry. Jets has been a valued supporter and partner of the AITC for many years with several apprentices still working at the club, young people doing work experience, and an invitation for more young people from the AITC to apply.
As part of the AITC’s unique BYB concept Year 11 business VET students from the Ipswich campus attended an insightful excursion to B&R Enclosures.
During the BYB experience students entered the real world of industry to contextualise their learning in another organisation’s boardroom. In addition to BYB at B&R, students toured the Australian, family-owned business which allowed them to learn about the amazing job opportunities within this remarkable company. The business encompasses product divisions: industrial, Data ICT, hazardous areas and solutions to residential commercial enclosure applications. The tour included insight into the different market segments, innovative design, product quality, and expectations of site safety which was explored further during their education program.
Neil Jorgensen, Customer Experience Manager, B&R Enclosures says the AITC excursion showcases their community values. “We feel it’s important as an Australian manufacturer to show people in the local community what we do and the opportunities we have here. Like a lot of businesses, we are constantly looking for new employees. At B&R we get people started at ground level and then train them. Throughout the whole organisation we have a lot of people who start on the shop floor and they’re now in design, or management, or doing a range of other roles.”
When employees begin at the base level, they can undertake more physical duties such as moving equipment or products. “We do a lot of on-the-job training here. If a person begins with
a reasonable level of education, like a Year 12 QCE, through training they could move anywhere in the organisation. There’s a lot of opportunities in a company such as B&R.”
Apprenticeship opportunities include mechanical and electrical apprenticeships. “B&R electrical apprenticeships is a big one for us because we do so much electrical integration on site. We will get apprentices in from all backgrounds, and increasingly we have more young women in the trades which is great,” says Neil.
“We are hoping the AITC young people take away an appreciation of the organisation and the different parts that are required to put together quality products. There are finer points, such as design, sales and marketing,” explains Neil. It’s good for them to know that “B&R exists because, even if they work for other places, they might buy products from us.” If they are thinking about joining B&R “we want young people to be aware of the support for employees available in a company like ours.”
B&R have a long list of clients, like the Australian Defence, major global organisations and local infrastructure, all with particular requirements. “We also design switchboard boxes, data racks and cabinets for data centres, there is a lot of focus around protection — so our processes are integral — as well as our people,” says Neil.
There’s a range of specialist activities that go into putting together a metal enclosure that will last — from design through to painting and cutting, “there’s so many different jobs and we focus on multiskilling people.”
By opening the doors of industry, and sharing a boardroom through the BYB program, it becomes a real world classroom for AITC students to link industry to education.
Urissa Chinia, VET Team Leader from the Ipswich campus says, “it’s great for our young people to have exposure of real life work skills in the industry sector. They need an idea of what it’s like to work out in the real world whilst having hands-on experience in the business sector.”
Young people were “extremely excited by the opportunity to be part of the BYB event at B&R,” says Urissa. “They were given a tour, had workplace health and safety discussions with the trainers from HR and a lunch was organised as well. The vibe was amazing. Our young people loved the tour. They were able to have a look at what manufacturing in Australia is like. It was bringing the learning experience from the classroom and seeing how it fits hand in hand with industry and in the real world.”
While there two of our young people expressed a keen interest in the prospect of working at B&R and had a meeting with the head of HR.
“Seeing young people step up and be proactive about finding an apprenticeship is rewarding. “To be a VET teacher and setting the foundation for young people to go into industry and chase these career opportunities is awesome,” says Urissa.
“Getting out of the classroom and into real life work experience is honestly vital for young people. To have this type of opportunity at the AITC is amazing.
VET Projects is part of the Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways in the Year 11 program. In the past VET Projects was run over the course of several weeks where young people worked in groups to create a business. They needed to be entrepreneurial and creative as they set about running their business, without loss, and ideally with a profit for charity — New Hope Cambodia.
This year our VET teachers worked together to brainstorm something a little different and came up with the first AITC VET Carnival Day.
Like any carnival, there were food stalls serving up a variety of delicious foods and entertainment stalls where people could try their luck winning a variety of fantastic prizes. The day was a huge success, and everyone had a great time with all young people, families and staff invited along to the day. Even though the day was festive, young people working on the stalls were critiqued on skills to pass their assessment.
Lisa Godlee, Gold Coast Team Leader explains, as part of the VET carnival event, Year 11 needed to do many things to pass their assessment. “They needed to think about their communication skills and techniques when talking to customers. They also had to price their products and think about the cost of their ingredients, how much they’re going to sell their product for, the return on their investment, and
calculating profit,” says Lisa. “The VET team were constantly walking around on the day and observing young people to mark their assessment.”
From a health and safety perspective (which is also part of the project too), “Year 11 had to think about their site plan in terms of health and safety, making sure they had the correct ratio of people to the size of the Gold Coast piazza.” All the finer details were organised prior to the carnival including how customers would approach their stall and risks such as a hot BBQ. Potentially some games involved risks such as the balloon darts game which needed safety precautions put in place.
“Every stall was supervised by one staff member, sometimes two, depending on the high-risk activity,” says Lisa.
Behind the scenes it took months of planning. “We started planning in Term 3. The VET team got together and started throwing ideas around and came up with the VET Carnival and decided to run it all on the same day instead of throughout the week,” says Lisa. There were 12 groups in total for the first cohort who organised a variety of delicious food and great entertainment.
“Food included hamburgers, bacon and egg rolls, sausage sizzle, we had gourmet chicken wraps, a fairy floss machine, lolly bags, shakes, nachos, soft drinks and more — it was a lot of fun.”
At the carnival, people could buy tokens and use them on food and entertainment.
All money raised from the carnival will go to New Cambodia Hope. “We talked to the young people about New Hope Cambodia prior to the carnival,” says Lisa. “Team Leaders Amy Thompson and Kelly Brickell have both been to New Hope Cambodia and we were able to show pictures to our young people of things we had built in the past.”
“With a project of this size it was great to see our young people having some fun on the day,” says Lisa. “It’s exciting and important for them to be involved in a practical, different type of assessment.”
Lisa says, “we want to say a big thank you to our sponsors and our prize donators as well. We reached out to many of our suppliers and were able to give away lots of great prizes, thanks to them. Once they heard about the charity we were raising funds for, and the fact they were getting behind AITC students and their assessment, they were 100% on board.”
Trade Tools Burleigh Waters
Large straw hat, esky and water bottle
Bunnings Robina $50 voucher
Jett’s Worongary One month gym membership, towel, drink bottle & protein bar
Jett’s Robina Two week gym membership and drink bottle
Woolworths Robina South $25 voucher
Coles Worongary $25 voucher
Coles Robina $25 voucher
Coles Nerang $25 voucher
ArtVo Robina Town Centre Family voucher (2 adults & 2 children)
Trade Mutt
Men’s shirt, socks and sunglass strap. Women’s shirt and hair ties.
Totally Workwear FXD backpack, socks and microfibre Burleigh Heads
Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways in the Year 11 program includes nine units of competency which cover:
• Oral communication skills to participate in workplace teams.
• Interacting effectively with work colleagues and customers.
• Social and cultural sensitivity.
• Participating and contributing to health and safety of themselves and others.
• Applying mathematical calculations such as estimating, measuring, and reading and interpreting plans for work.
The Sunshine Coast campus organised an exciting assessment task using Project-based Learning (PBL) for their Year 10 Rookies. Over the course of the term earlier in 2022, young people in teams designed and built a go kart to eventually race their unique designs at the Nambour TAFE.
PBL is a teaching method where young people learn by actively engaging in the real-world with personally meaningful projects across a variety of subjects. The project allows young people to develop deep content knowledge and also supports development of 21st century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication.
Trevor Hodgett, Sunshine Coast Team Leader, gives insight into how the Go Kart Project took off. “At the start of the year we became excited about the concept of a PBL assessment. In Term 2 we took the Year 10 group and split them into teams to prepare for the huge task ahead.”
Scott Butler, Sunshine Coast Team Leader adds. “I feel that having a project like this and progressing it through the whole term really suited our young people. The different style of learning was important, and we could see the benefits of that. The engagement has been fantastic.
“The assessment pieces for each subject were embedded within the kart build and the assignment. They were still covering all elements in Design and Technology, Science, English and Math but it was geared towards the kart build project.”
During Science they learnt about the physics involved in their design and during Maths they learnt how to analyse qualitative data in order to understand the mechanics. Learning about the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of the design was only part of the process. During English young people needed to develop a marketing pitch for their kart and learn about the art of persuasive speech and effective communication.
Trevor says, “we welcomed April Ford of the April Ford Digital Marketing agency in Maroochydore to assist us with our Year 10 literacy advertising pitches.
April kindly sat through the presentation from each group and provided feedback on how they could tweak their pitches for maximum effect. “Young people were fantastic in their delivery and the work they put into their pitches showed. Having to deliver their ideas to an industry professional in a boardroom also added an element of realism to the PBL.”
AITC CEO Mark Hands, says staff appreciated PBL as it allowed young people to “fail forward” throughout the design, build and test phases.
Trevor says, “one thing that is clear to us is that learning is not just about the grade. We saw immense learning in the actual failings and successes that they had every day during the project. That was in terms of teamwork, figuring things out, moving forward with a plan, and getting to build the go kart and having fun. It was all rolled into one.
There was massive development in young people throughout the project. Scott says at the beginning there was a lot of ‘she’ll be right’ approach. By the end of the project young people were starting to see the importance of planning, and they were reflecting in a way which we hadn’t seen before. They were saying, ‘If we could do this project again we would need to structure the kart better.’ It was fantastic to see.”
Reflection showed the learning in a new dimension. Scott added, “virtually every day they were trying something new. It was tough for us to step back and let them do things on their own. But at the beginning of term we told them ‘failing forwards’ is part of the project. With failing comes learning. They certainly did that!” says Scott. “They had the reflection at the end of every day and at the end of the term we had a lively discussion with everyone in the class. They were giving feedback on themselves and being brutally honest about what they could do better.”
Thank you to everyone who came out and supported our young people during their Soap Box Derby Race Day. Our Year 10 Rookies did an incredible job of putting together their go-karts and the time trials were intense — not to mention the final jump. There were close calls, spills, thrills and lots of laughter. Competitiveness and camaraderie were the themes of the day with our final winners being Ronan, Grayson and Corbin. This was an exciting part of the culmination of hard work for this Project Based Learning exercise. Many hours of work and research went into these designs and the finished products were outstanding. We had the Black Pearl, the Jamaican Bobsled Team, Mario Kart, Illegally Blonde and so many more.
Redlands Year 10 students were provided an opportunity to explore career opportunities in the Australian marine industry at Riviera Australia. They were amazed at the size and scale of the place. They were taken through the life of a luxury yacht from a barrel of epoxy all the way through to the final polish of the teak deck before being handed over to the client. While there they caught up with Jai, Year 11, out on work experience within the engineering/heavy diesel work area.
Riviera has 850-strong employees and has built over 5800 luxury motor yachts over 41 years. Today, Riviera exports around 55% of their annual production to a global dealer network spanning every continent. They design and build luxury motor yachts from 39 to 78 feet in length across five distinct model collections.
Redlands Team Leaders and Industry Consultants went to the Gold Coast for the Students on Track at the Gold Coast 500 experience. The Students on Track program is a great educational experience for young people to spend a day trackside and learn about one of Australia’s top sports up close. Unlike any other sport, young people were close enough to watch the drivers, engineers and team owners run through their paces and get the cars ready for racing.
It was definitely an opportunity for young people to see one area where many trades and traineeships might lead. They were able to observe racing from Muscle Cars, Porches and Utes, as well as practice for the V8 Supercars. The Students on Track representatives gave everyone a hat and tote bag. A great day was had by all involved and we are looking forward to the next one.
As part of studying earth spheres and cycles Year 10 visited nearby Stradbroke Island. Our young people were given the opportunity to explore two different ecosystems and discussed the way the hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere and lithosphere interact. They looked at the differences in plants and animals in the two locations. Young people were also involved in a group activity to build a sand bunker using available materials as an add-on to their design unit for this term which involved designing a shelter to survive a zombie apocalypse. The tools used to build the shelter were limited and the employability metrics of teamwork and interpersonal skills were required to complete the task effectively.
The AITC was involved in a remarkable collaboration between Learning Environments Australasia (LEA), QUT staff and students, people from the Department of Education, Independent Schools Queensland, architects and designers in what is hopefully the first of many workshops around the future of happier and healthier schools.
Over 100 people came together at the prestigious QUT campus, overlooking the breathtaking view of Brisbane city, to discuss how schools could be designed to be happier and healthier.
To begin the collaborative event at QUT, two groups of young people from the Brisbane campus presented their project-based learning activity on school design. Putting their nerves aside, they talked confidently about features which would help create a better campus — including the use of an on-site gym.
Our young people also discussed what wellness means for them at school and answered a series of questions from the audience.
Dani Martin, Senior Associate, from Gray Puksand and Executive Director at LEA emceed the event and discussed the importance of intentionally designed learning environments.
“The LEA exists to make better spaces for the future for kids. So that’s what we’re looking at — how do we plan for the next 20 years at schools to make them happier, healthier places for all students.” says Dani.
Rhys Cassidy, Acting Campus Manager Brisbane, says the event was incredibly successful in “connecting with the QUT and opening up our young people’s eyes when collaborating with other people from different backgrounds. The event helped them also think more about future school design, and improving schools, for wellbeing — which tied in with their project-based learning.
“It was great to see the level of networking and discussions taking place between AITC young people, QUT students, staff and industry associates,” says Rhys.
Melissa Guyatt, Sessional QUT Academic says the event, “had been a great exchange of student perspectives, and industry wisdom, to frame up the what if question: ‘If we could design anything in our schools what would it look like?’.”
There are benefits from online learning that we could keep, “like being able to stretch across the world, and learn from people in America, Europe, in Asia, right from our home here in Australia.”
The group collaboration was thoroughly enjoyed by all, with everyone contributing to designing healthy schools of the future. “It was great to come out to QUT, work on different workshops, and see different insights,” commented one AITC young person.
There’s a lot of changes happening in the world at the moment and school is really becoming that centre for students to feel safe and comfortable — we want school to be the happiest and healthiest place it can be,” says Dani.
Find out more about the future of healthier schools
VIEW VIDEO
Preparing for a job interview can be stressful for anyone, especially for a young person entering the job market for the first time. A job candidate can only guess as to the types of questions they will be asked. Then there’s non-verbal communication cues a potential employer may look for, scanning key words in a resume, presentation of the resume, presentation of the job seeker, all to whittle down their top list of candidates.
In an invaluable lesson, our young people from the Gold Coast campus were shown firsthand how to finetune their job interview skills. Employers from various companies and connections came along to critique our young people in an interview situation. In the lead up to this event, each young person researched a relevant position on Seek and prepared their resume and cover letter in response to the job advertisement.
VET Team Leaders (Lisa Godlee and Kelly Brickell) arranged this incredible training opportunity for Year 11 young people doing their Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways. Young people brought a copy of their resume and cover letter to their interview which lasted approximately 10 minutes with each employer.
“This is an essential learning experience,” says Lisa. “For every work experience call they make, that’s an interview. Every time they turn up to work experience — that’s an interview. The way they perform in the workplace, the fact they show initiative, that’s all part of the interview process.”
Lisa explains, “the reality is we don’t get just one job and stay in it forever. Statistics show we may have at least 17 jobs before we retire so the interview process is important.”
Sherrie Dunshae, Careers Outreach Consultant, Study Gold Coast offers her best tips. “Ensure your resume is tailored to the specific job, so rather than lay out a generic resume, list key words and attributes listed in the job. Always put any work experience and job experience in reverse chronological order,” she says.
“A cover letter is a summary, so it’s really a story about what you have done and what you’re looking, for whereas a resume actually lists all of your skills, attributes and the experience you’ve had in your career.”
Cathy Lockyer, Career Development Consultant, MAS National offers more advice. “They say an average recruiter will look at your resume from 6 to 10 seconds so it has to be easy to look at. Nicely presented, well laid out, the most important information needs to jump out from the page. One of the things we always say is that ‘attitude beats aptitude’. You might
“ Ensure your resume is tailored to the specific job, so rather than lay out a generic resume, list key words and attributes listed in the job.
know how to do a job but if you don’t come across very well you’re not going to get the job. It’s how you come across. You can train someone, or teach someone to do a job, but it’s that can-do attitude, easy going, friendly nature that will definitely get you over the line for a job.”
Cathy says, “Nine times out of ten an interviewer will ask you if you have any questions at the end. If you can think of maybe one or two things about the company you’re going for, or the role, it always helps.”
Brendan Dennett, Service Staff Development Manager, from the Frizelle Sunshine Automotive Group continually finds exceptional schoolbased apprentices. “Year 12 QCE is very important. I look for this when I study a resume. You need to finish what you start.
If a young person is looking to go into an industry that’s dynamic and fast-paced — the automotive industry is exactly that. To be able to say that ‘I’ve done and completed Year 12 QCE’ — that’s paramount.”
Dennis Beck, (past AITC Chairman) talked about the AITC young people he met during the interview day. “They’re so keen to get out into the workforce. One particular young person I spoke with said he wanted to finish his apprenticeship and then go to bigger and better things which I was very happy to hear. We need great people out there in industry.”
We wish to thank:
Cathy Lockyer, MAS MRAEL
Kylie Hall, MAS MRAEL
Lorraine Newlyn, Newlyn Training
Todd Firth, Heart 2 Art Workshops
Brendan Dennett, Frizelle Sunshine
Andrew Pevats, Gimbal Training
Sherrie Dunshea, Study Gold Coast
Sian Shannon, Signmakers
Kylee Mac, TAFE
Kym Fleet, Maritimo Gold Coast
Dennis Beck, Past AITC Chairman (Construction)
Donna Naylor, Study Gold Coast
Dave Hooper, Blink Finance
Larissa Galvin, Maritimo Gold Coast
Eliza Lane, AITC
Sam Eydt, AITC
Jennifer Pender-Brookes, Business Owner
Congratulations to AITC 2022 graduate Ella O’Shannessy who was awarded the TAFE School-based Apprentice of the Year.
Ella came into our Year 10 program on the Gold Coast in 2020 as a rising star and was an exemplary student. Ella is completing a bricklaying apprenticeship and has a very promising career ahead despite her initial hurdles. Ella’s employer struggled during COVID and Ella had to find another so she could continue her apprenticeship. Unperturbed by the challenges, Ella reconnected with her bricklaying teacher from TAFE and networked her way to another opportunity. She found a great opportunity and is now signed-up with Bluemoon Bricklaying Pty Ltd. She graduated with her QCE and full time employment. We couldn’t be prouder of Ella and know she’ll continue to go from strength to strength.
Here we celebrate the outstanding performances of our young people, displaying a selection of sign-up photos during 2022. To see more of these momentous achievements, see our social platforms.
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In Jackson’s time with Devbuilt he showed his willingness to learn and have a go at all tasks set for him. Now he is a school-based carpenter’s apprentice and will be working on premier homes in the Brisbane area and understanding the importance of quality and customer service.
21 October 2022 + Engineering – Mechanical
Caleb has been signed-up into a school-based Cert III in engineering and machining with Protonautics. We look forward to seeing Caleb increase his skill and knowledge in the area of advanced manufacturing with a local company.
BREANNA STARK
12 September 2022 + Traineeship – Childcare
Breanna has a school-based child care traineeship with Sparrow Early Learning. She has shown fantastic values and character in her time with the AITC and continues to be a great team member on campus. We can’t wait to see the amazing young people Breanna will shape in her chosen career path.
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Louis was signed-up into a school-based carpentry apprentice with Homan Constructions. He sampled many industries before finding his path in carpentry with Matt at Homan. Louis’s positive attitude and initiative resulted in great feedback from his work experience, making Matt’s decision to sign him up an easy one.
15 August 2022 + Electrical
Charlie was signed-up into a school-based electrical apprenticeship with Main Switchboards Australia. He put in a fantastic effort throughout his work experience blocks and impressed the team with his enthusiasm and willingness to learn new skills. Charlie demonstrated employability metrics to a high standard which made him an asset in his new role.
George became a school-based plumber’s apprentices with KML Plumbing. He quickly found his calling after work experience and KML Plumbing were pleased with how George presented himself and his willingness to learn. Congratulations George for achieving a positive outcome so early in your AITC journey.
GRACE HALSTEAD
7 November 2022 + Business
After hearing about opportunities within the real estate sector Grace wanted to give business a try. After a work block with Raine & Horne Grace was adamant she had found her pathway. Raine & Horne were delighted with Grace’s conduct and happily committed to taking her on as a schoolbased business trainee.
29 June 2022 + Carpentry
Tejay was determined to find a future in carpentry and when he started work experience with Dean Curry Constructions he instantly felt at home. The owners, Dean and Kylie, were familiar with the AITC program as former AITC parents. Tejay knew this was his fit and was soon offered a school-based carpenter’s apprenticeship with the Dean Curry team.
12 September 2022 + Carpentry
Deacon was signed-up as a school-based apprentice carpenter with Oscars Building Projects. After gaining work experience in the trade he immediately knew this was the career for him. After impressing the team at Oscars Building Projects with his attitude and fantastic work ethic Deacon was offered an opportunity to become a school-based apprentice.
Billy was signed-up with Advanced Climate Solutions in Cert III Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. Billy has worked extremely hard since joining the AITC and has an exceptional future ahead.
31 October 2022 + Retail
Jai has been signed-up with AWX Transport where he will be undertaking a Cert III in supply chain operations. He found logistics and transportation was the best career pathway to pursue and feedback from prior work experience employers was always positive. Jai showed a willingness to learn, was developing good skills and he is great to work with.
27 October 2022 +
After careful consideration Zayd looked for a challenging work experience role with Future Auto in Wynnum as a light vehicle mechanic. He showed the team his outstanding work ethic and great skills. Zayd loved the work environment and, when offered a school-based apprenticeship, he happily accepted.
2 November 2022 +
Melody was signed-up with Sue’s Burgers and Shakes as a school-based hospitality trainee. Edward, the manager, spoke to her about becoming a trainee and working towards a Cert III in hospitality. Melody jumped at the chance and has not looked back since — excited about completing her accreditation and seeing where this will take her in the future.
CHARLOTTE CANNING
5 October 2022 + Hairdressing
Charlotte was signed-up as a schoolbased apprentice hairdresser with Pink Ginger. During work experience blocks she was determined to find her ideal career path. Working with the team at Pink Ginger she found her career pathway and the smile says it all! Charlotte’s positive attitude and hard work has paid off.
1 November 2022 + Electrician
Sabin came to the AITC to strengthen career prospects and find something different with senior schooling. After work experience with Switch Box Pty Ltd Sabin found he enjoyed the work and helping the team to build and manufacture switch boxes. The employer was impressed and offered Sabin a school-based electrical apprenticeship.
28 November 2022 + Animal Studies
Elle booked in work experience at the Toowoomba Veterinary Hospital and within a matter of days the team knew she was a great fit. Elle is signed-up with a Cert II in Animal Care and is an amazing asset to their team. Her journey will be supported by a fantastic workplace who will continue to encourage her in further learning.
28 October 2022 + Civil Construction Plant Operations
Nate was signed-up as a school-based apprentice into a Cert III in civil plant operations with Earthbound Civil. The employer saw Nate’s potential and eagerness to get out and work. Nate’s new journey will take him to a variety of locations, upcoming projects and developments enhancing his skills every day.
BRAIDEN KAY
31 October 2022+ Motorcycle Mechanical Tech
Congratulations to Braiden who was signed-up as a school-based mechanic with Qld Bike & 4WD. When an opportunity came along to sign him up into a Cert III as a motorcycle mechanic they were thrilled to offer him the position. Braiden says he loves the variety of work they complete and the people he works with.
26 October 2022 + Carpentry
Nic has been signed-up with Shane at High Range Construction as a school-based carpenter’s apprentice. He will have the opportunity to work on a varied range of projects, including high end new builds and restoration.
21 October 2022+ Electrician
Jemma secured her chosen career path and was signed-up as a school-based electrical apprentice with SES Electrical. She displayed great persistence during work experience and it was gratifying to see her sign the apprenticeship paperwork. Jemma’s hard work paid off and she will have a lot to celebrate this year, graduating Year 12 with a QCE and an apprenticeship.
Conrad from Kedron Plumbing Services was so impressed with Ethan’s motivation, attitude and hard work that he offered Ethan a plumbing apprenticeship. His dedication to the plumbing trade is clear as he will be relocating to Brisbane from the Sunshine Coast for this opportunity.
JACK COOGAN
31 October 2022 + Barbering
Jack has shaped a fashionable career into barbering with 2 Brothers Barbershop at Kawana on the Sunshine Coast. After demonstrating a committed attitude Jack has been signed-up as a schoolbased barber’s apprentice with the team. Being a barber is a creative and busy role which includes cutting hair, shaving, shampooing, grooming, and applying colouring treatments.
21 November 2022 + Mobile Plant
Ethan’s love of everything mechanical was obvious and he found his passion in mobile plant and machinery with Shadforth during work experience. His hard work, willingness to learn and thirst to do more work impressed Shadforth and they offered him a school-based apprenticeship in mobile plant technology.
21 November 2022 + Electrical - Lift Systems
It was through Forte Lift Services that Thomas grew fond of the electrical installation and maintenance industry. He is now a school-based electrical apprentice in lift systems. Congratulations Thomas — you proved hard work, patience and perseverance is recognised and rewarded.
21 November 2022 + Electrician
Throughout his time at the AITC Liam has shown determination and focus to reach his goal. After his hard work he was offered a school-based electrical apprenticeship with PHE Industrial Electrical Installations across Australia.
One day I was listening to the radio station River 94.9 and the AITC sparked my interest.
The AITC program was great because I enjoy getting out of the classroom and into industry. I’ve grown up with trade around me all my life. My grandfather, when he was in the army, was an aircraft engineer/mechanic. One day we bought an ex-army Unimog. My dad and I did a bit of work on it. I enjoyed it a lot and I proceeded from there.
I already had a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation through my old school.
Now I am working for Daimler Trucks Brisbane as an apprentice heavy diesel mechanic. The team are great, a lot of fun, a good group of people I
try to learn as much as I can from. I get there at about 7:15am even though my starting time isn’t until 8:00am. I’m getting on the workshop floor at 7:30am and I’m sweeping for the majority of the morning and cleaning up. I then go to our foreman who will assign me a technician. From there I do what the technician says — whether that’s helping pull an engine out of a truck, pulling a gearbox out of a truck and putting a fresh gearbox in, helping out with a service, checking brakes, or doing brake pads.
From the minute I graduate school I will have a full-time job. It feels pretty good because it means I won’t be looking for full-time work. I don’t have to rely on a roster with casual/part-time employment and I won’t have a HECS debt. At the moment I’m saving up for a house deposit as an investment property. I’m going to try and stay at home as long as possible to do that.
My life has been completely changed since enrolling at the AITC. In the future I am looking to do a Cert IV in Heavy Vehicle Motors and I can get into mechanical engineering at university. It is something I am thinking about in the future. My future goals are: investment property, maybe university, and owning my own Unimog!
A person should look for enjoyment with their apprenticeship, not mind getting in and doing some cleaning — and sweep your way to victory!
It’s important to graduate with your Year 12 QCE because it shows to employers you have the goal and you are committed to finishing Year 12.
Try to find a trade you like. Do work experience over your school holidays. Don’t be afraid to give the place a call to see if they will take you for work experience. You might call a lot of places before you find the right one but keep trying and don’t give up.
I heard about the AITC on the radio, and I’m happy I made the switch. It’s important for me to finish Year 12— and my number one priority is getting a fulltime job.
Mainstream education doesn’t support young people like me — interested in both a trade and achieving Year 12 QCE. Since joining the AITC I’ve turned a corner, I will graduate and find an apprenticeship as well. I am feeling greatly relieved because I’m able to focus on my goals. At the AITC my education is more streamlined towards industry and the support here is good. If you’re facing any challenges, you can reach out to other people for help, like Industry Consultants or your Personal Industry Coach.
Since Year 11 I have been working for Electrical Ways, Hattonvale, as an electrician’s apprentice. As an electrical
You’ve got to put your foot in the door, otherwise you’ll never know.
I found mainstream school was more focused on the curriculum than the actual people doing the work. I wanted a new start so I came to the AITC. A friend told me about the College and I was accepted after selection day. I wanted to do carpentry when I first came here but found that it wasn’t for me. I also tried landscaping and childcare as well — where I did lots of work experience.
In my first week at my current childcare centre, Elm Tree Early Learning Centre in Ormeau, I was offered a traineeship. It’s so good — the team were welcoming and so sweet. I like working with kindergarten aged children and pre-prep, I have a lot of fun with them.
At the AITC the education/industry blocks work well for me. When you’re working you get a break from education and when you’re doing education you get a break from work. It’s not as intense and stressful for someone my age. The support from the AITC is great, they really try hard. I have
apprentice my job can be anything from installing powerpoints to light switches and helping with running cables in new housing. I have even helped with some solar work.
I like the work environment as an electrical apprentice and the possibilities where it can take you. I love seeing all the advancements in technology. We were working on one house recently and couldn’t get cables down the wall where they wanted them so we installed radio frequency light switching (remote control light switching). I find in this job I am always upskilling and always learning on the job.
If you’re facing any challenges, you can reach out to other people for help, like Industry Consultants or your Personal Industry Coach.
been with the College since Year 10. Before I came here I never liked trying new things, but, since I’ve been here, I always try new things. I’m not afraid to put myself out there anymore—not like I was at my old school. I’d be too scared to do anything. I’m more confident here. I’m a completely different person now.
I want to get my Year 12 QCE and have future plans to become part of the Child Protection Unit. I will need to join the general Police force first, and a QCE is a requirement.
blueprint australian industry trade college
CJ, Year 12, was signed-up with the energetic and dedicated team at Shark Plumbing on the Gold Coast this year. When he began his work experience placement CJ knew this was the team he wanted to complete his apprenticeship with.
He put in the hours and proved his commitment working with Shark throughout his holidays — reaping the reward when the apprenticeship contract was signed to be a school-based plumber’s apprentice.
Brad Pippin aka ‘the People’s Plumber’ from Shark Plumbing says, “we look for someone with exceptional skills and I see that all in CJ. We are looking forward to having him as part of our team.”
CJ says working with the vibrant Shark team makes the job fun. “Plumbing is a fun job, digging every day, working hard, it’s about getting in there and working on all the nitty gritty stuff.”
CJ believes the AITC is a great school to help get a career headstart. “I like the way the AITC is different from other schools. We can get a Cert III in business as well as a traineeship which other schools may not offer. It’s good getting a balance between work and school with our industry and education blocks. Mainstream schools have a 12-week school block which gets a bit boring. At least we change it up and it makes it a bit more fun.”
“When I was growing up, I realised a trade is important. It can take you all over the world, it’s a great skill to have,” says CJ.
“I’ll be the first in my family to be a plumber and my younger brother wants to be a plumber as well. Plumbing was my first and only trade I tried for work experience — I enjoyed plumbing straight away.”
As well as being industry ready CJ says “it’s important to graduate Year 12 and have your QCE. There are a lot of employers out there and they look out for those QCE points and Year 12 completion. That stands out to potential employers.”
The AITC delivers “a deliberately different education,” enthuses CJ. “There are six campuses across Queensland so there’s a lot of opportunities to start your career.”
CJ will automatically go full-time with Shark Plumbing after graduating from the AITC in Year 12. “It’s a big step from working in seven-week blocks to going into full-time work and heading into the real world. However, it feels great to earn my own money. I feel like a grown up. Earning my own money and doing work I can be proud of — it feels good.”
Brad says this is the second apprentice from the AITC to work at Shark. “To be honest young people at the AITC are ready to go. They’ve built up the skills through work experience and they’re ready for work. They’re learning it in the classroom before they come out for work experience so when they come out on the field they know what they’re doing.”
When beginning on his career path CJ was nervous when starting to look for work experience “You’ve got to keep on calling and eventually you find the employer who says, ‘yes’ to work experience.”
Another measure of success is taking “the AITC values into the workplace — hard work, having initiative, employers really love initiative — that stands out. Respect as well. Keeping eye contact is something we’ve been taught and that is great to have in the workplace.”
It’s a big step from working in sevenweek blocks to going into full-time work and heading into the real world... Earning my own money and doing work I can be proud of — it feels good.
After more than one year of placements being affected by COVID, and policy changes, Georgette showed great resilience with a steadfast vision on obtaining her pathway of choice. Even with career obstacles, she continued to undertake work experience in areas that would provide transferable skills in the health care sector. The feedback from the employer during the interview process was fantastic — Georgette is a distinct standout, displaying character, maturity, and foresight. A bright future awaits Georgette in the field of primary care.
Originally from a private school in Ipswich, Georgette wanted something that held more options for her career. “I really wanted to go into nursing.” Her parents looked into the AITC and Georgette went for an interview where she was offered a place the same day beginning in Year 10.
“Honestly I wasn’t nervous about the change in schools. It was sad to leave everyone but I was ready for a new chapter in my life. New beginnings and meeting new people,” she says. “I was lucky I had friends who had come across as well so I had a little group of friends already. We all made the decision to come to the AITC around the same time.”
Georgette quickly settled into the industry and education program but found work experience a challenge at first “only because I’d never done something like that before,” she says. After trying various places including veterinary surgeries and childcare places Georgette still focused on the one career she wanted — nursing.
During COVID it was particularly difficult because it meant hospitals weren’t taking on school-based trainees. Tom Lewis, Industry Consultant, supported Georgette’s efforts to keep looking and through family connections at St Andrew’s Hospital they learnt about the hospital traineeship. “When I had the interview I cried because at the time I wasn’t ready. With the second interview, the interviewer already knew me and it was a lot more relaxed,” admits Georgette.
The traineeship is a Cert III in Health Support Services. “Basically, my job is personal care of patients. I help shower people, make beds, help dress patients, all that kind of caring work is involved. I’m currently in medical services and then I go to another ward. In my current ward the nurses are lovely people and willing to teach me everything.”
Georgette works every Monday and Tuesday throughout the term and goes to school from Wednesday to Friday. “I work
the entire time and I don’t fall behind. I get lots of support. The AITC works around me in a sense. If I do miss anything I’m able to catch up easily.”
With her sights set on becoming a midwife, Georgette is set to go to university. “I’m looking at the University of Southern Queensland, so I can do their headstart program next year. That’s where you’re doing some Uni subjects but you’re still in Year 12. If that doesn’t work I can apply for Uni after I finish Year 12,” she says.
“I would like to become a registered nurse first and then do midwifery. I’m nervous and excited about the future. It’s getting real now. I have six weeks to go and I’m in Year 12. All I can think about is a career in helping people. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. Helping people makes me happy.”
This inspirational teenager has learnt a lot in her time at the AITC and her family are extremely proud. “I’ve learnt that I’m stronger than I thought. A few people tried to steer me away from nursing, I stuck to what I wanted and here I am. My family are over the moon! My mum is so happy — she cried the day I told her I was offered the traineeship.”
Now she’s found her career pathway Georgette says it’s “very important to graduate with Year 12 QCE — I will need this to get into university as well.”
I always wanted to do nursing. I stuck with that the entire time. If you know what you want to do then chase your dreams.
With work experience, Year 10 is the year to pick whatever you want, try whatever work experience you want, whether it’s for one day or one week, try everything.
Ringing up people can be challenging. I called 20 people before I found my first workplace — just don’t give up. I kept on trying.
Don’t feel nervous, and research businesses, look at their reviews, talk to the Industry Consultants for advice.
I’ve learnt that I’m stronger than I thought. A few people tried to steer me away from nursing, I stuck to what I wanted and here I am. My family are over the moon!
Recently Mitch from the AITC x Protech Academy was chosen to be part of the Cross River Rail Student Champions Program. The program has been designed to engage and empower young people from across the local community to have their say in the design and delivery of the Cross River Rail.
Mitch is one of 10-15 Student Champions from Years 9-10, from schools across South-East Queensland, with an interest in innovation and community development.
Student Champions will be responsible for representing the thoughts and opinions of young people as they work to develop innovative solutions for elements of the Cross River Rail project. Commencing in September 2022, and running over the course of six months, young people will meet for two days in each school holiday period, as well as virtually for two sessions during the school term.
The program will finish with a final showcase breakfast, during which teams will propose final solutions to the challenges presented to them to a team of Cross River Rail leaders, teachers, and families.
Cross River Rail is a new 10.2-kilometre rail line from Dutton Park to Bowen Hills, which includes 5.9 kilometres of twin tunnels under the Brisbane River and the CBD. South-East Queensland’s population is rising, putting our transport network under pressure. The current rail network is already nearing capacity and is constrained by a single river crossing and just four inner-city stations, causing the bottleneck that limits our ability to run more trains.
Mitch says, “Cross River Rail was an interesting experience as we dove deeper into the project. Industry management came in and talked with us about how they manage and fund the massive project.”
The strength and structural design of the tunnel is integral to safety. “We learned that this is the first underground project integrated with public transport. It lets more trains pass under the water and every layer is important in keeping the tunnel safe.”
It was great getting to know the other Student Champions during the first week. “People started to get to know each other and speak with confidence. Everyone has unique ideas about this project, how to fix potential problems, and find solutions. We have different teams — Leader, Hipster, and Nerd (with different team roles such as Hipster, Hacker, Hustler, Humanist) these will be the teams we will be working with for the breakfast presentation.”
Will from Redlands has what it takes!
For World Photography Day this year we sent an invitation to our young people across the AITC to capture and submit industry inspired moments.
Categories included Industry Focus, AITC Impact and Our Values in Action.
The winner of the competition, “Through the Lens of Our Young People”, was Will from the AITC Redlands campus. His highquality images showcased his significant eye and talent.
Congratulations to Corey, from our Gold Coast campus, who was recently signed-up as a school-based carpenter’s apprentice with ModnPods.
Since 2015, ModnPods has been providing prefabricated, modular housing and accommodation with an uncompromised commitment to quality and sustainability. The business creates sustainable pod housing and accommodation solutions for holiday parks, wineries, pastoral companies, schools and social housing.
Corey has just joined the amazing team and is ModnPod’s first AITC school-based apprentice. “We’re really excited about that,” says John Christie, Founder and CRO from ModnPods. “We have another work experience apprentice, Hannah, and she’s doing a phenomenal job.”
John says apprentices from the AITC stand out from other young people. The AITC “is all about shaping futures,” John explains. “AITC apprentices are extremely motivated. When Corey came on board, he embraced the entire team.” Corey has a strong entrepreneurial background, so “with all the growth that we have, and the scaling of the business, there’s a lot of areas Corey can grow in.”
Corey will be looking to head into Year 12 in 2023 and complete his Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) at the AITC. “We’re all about longevity and we want to support that growth for him,” says John. “Anything Corey needs from us, whether it’s tools, leadership, training, we’re going to provide that for him.”
During the official sign-up Corey’s mum Karly was there, along with Corey’s Industry Consultant, other AITC staff and Kelli Wilson from MEGT. John says, “it was fantastic watching him sign all the contracts and the documents. We’re really excited to have Corey and Hannah on board.”
John is looking forward to having more AITC young people come and join the team. “We are looking for someone who is extremely motivated, willing to learn, who can embrace the team environment, because that’s who we are at ModnPods.”
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Career pathways are becoming increasingly important in sustaining the numbers of skilled workers in trade professions. Student pathways and Gateway to Industry programs are proving vital in training the next generation of workers in the skilled trades, which is crucial to the future of our economy.
Australia is presently facing one of the largest skill shortages in decades. In fact, a National Skills Commission report recently indicated that the number of skilled occupations facing labour shortages more than doubled from 2021 to 2022.
One of the most in-demand and critical occupations in Australia is feeling this shortage more so than others. Specifically, nearly half (47 per cent) of jobs in the Technicians and Trades Workers occupation category were in shortage in 2022. With over $100 billion injected into the Australian economy by the manufacturing trade every year, it is vital that this issue be addressed. However, with a little more than 12% of the engineering workforce being female, there is significant opportunity to combat this shortage.
Currently, more than half of Queensland’s manufacturing workforce is over 40 years old, with 72% being male. This presents a unique challenge to the future of the industry if it is unable to inspire upcoming generations to pursue roles within this critical sector.
Thankfully there are various gateway programs which allow schools to partner with industries to help create skilled, eager workers, and opportunities for school leavers. The Gateway to Industry Schools Program for Advanced Manufacturing, hosted by the Queensland Manufacturing Institute (QMI), is a Queensland government initiative aimed at growing the local manufacturing industry and offering trade career pathways.
Together with QMI, an independent, not-for-profit organisation, the Advanced Manufacturing Gateway program’s focus is to support the long-term development of a highly skilled workforce. Helping address Queensland’s ongoing skills shortage in jobs traditionally
reserved for men, QMI’s ‘Women Who Weld’ Program, established in 2019, encourages women as young as 14 to learn the skills of industrial welding. Supported by multiple industry sponsors who provide funding that is distributed through QMI to help schools pay for materials, the program is already helping to encourage greater female participation in typically male-dominated sectors of trades and manufacturing.
“Typically, a school’s entire STEM agenda is focused on getting girls into tertiary studies, whereas [the Women Who Weld program] shows there are options into trade pathways where STEM is still very important,” Dalby State High School Principal Dean Russell said.
Notably, the program has sparked a 20% rise in female interest in these career pathways, with the potential to increase yearon-year engagement. This proves the impact that this program is having in the skills space and introduces a new generation of empowered women to the manufacturing sector; one with broader industry awareness, employment-ready skills and closer industry relationships with local communities.
“[Thanks to the QMI Women Who Weld program] I have developed a great curiosity to become an apprentice. I would love to learn more about the opportunities and how I can become part of the industry” said St Ursula College student, Summer Tysoe.
Women who Weld program has sparked a rise in female interest in these career pathways
As outlined in the Queensland Women’s Strategy 2022-27, the government is committing to identifying and supporting talented women and girls to pursue careers in typically male dominated industries like manufacturing. Overall, approximately 27% of Queensland’s manufacturing employees are women, with the most common roles being that of clerical and administrative, as well as community and personal service workers.
Although gender inequality has improved considerably over the past century, men still hold more managerial positions than women in Queensland’s manufacturing industry. However, there is a slow but steady turning in the tide as more businesses recognise the importance of gender diversity in the workplace.
Recent research conducted by McKinsey indicates that businesses with diverse workforces can experience superior financial returns than those without. Moreover, diversity-embracing businesses are believed to be 1.7 times more innovative, as diverse backgrounds and life experiences help to boost creativity in the workplace. It also suggested that more diversity increases the likelihood that businesses will capture more markets by up to 70%.
When faced with an overwhelming skills shortage, it has never been more important to encourage gender diversity in the workplace. The Women Who Weld program offers an exciting insight to a possible career pathway in the manufacturing industry with a one day workshop for female students prior to their subject selection. Taking the format of an initial safety induction, the program then offers an introduction on how to MIG weld, followed by the students learning to craft their very own wind chime or jewellery tree.
“In many respects, this program has been a real game-changer for our girls, opening their eyes to a whole new world of career options in a sector traditionally dominated by men,” says teacher, Mr Russell.
With the potential to foster and support the long term development of a highly-skilled workforce in Queensland, the program is actively sparking the interest and enthusiasm needed to help drive greater numbers of females toward a career in this critical sector.
Lachlan Wright, GISP Advanced Manufacturing Program Manager, notes that since its launch in 2019, the Women Who Weld program continues to flourish and is now held in over 12 regions each year and has over 350 student participants and counting.
“It has been great to see the Women Who Weld program be received so well by its participants. We look forward to replicating its success and continuing to encourage female students to explore exciting manufacturing career pathways” says Lachlan.
By looking to the future with an ethical, sustainable and gender neutral view, we have the ability to close the skills gap and ensure that trade businesses have access to the skilled workers they need to compete on the global stage. In the end, careers shouldn’t have gender.
The Future Schools and Partnerships team have been out and about making long term connections to support the AITC young people on their journeys to success. Gateway to Industry Schools Programs have been one of the areas that we have been working on. As a result, we have gained some excellent opportunities for our young people and the AITC staff.
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(All AITC campuses) Hosted through Construction Skills QLD, the Building and Construction Gateway to Industry Schools project exposes students to a range of learning experiences to help plan their future career choices and provide pathways into para-professional roles in the building and construction industry. The project is delivered in partnership with Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) to raise awareness of the different pathways into the building and construction industry. The project involves:
a. raising the profile of para-professional roles and careers in construction
b. providing opportunities for industry placements
c. creating links between industry and schools
d. assisting with professional development for teachers.
(Sunshine Coast Campus) The Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) which provides a talent pipeline of employees into the resources sector and other supporting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) industries.
i. Teacher professional development is offered by QMEA staff and third-party innovation partners. Students can participate in part day, whole day and extended experiences, including the annual 6 day camps offered in various locations across Queensland.
ii. Students and teachers are engaged in both trade and professional programs which focus on STEM-related areas, aligning to the Australian and Queensland curricula where practical.
iii. Teachers and students also have access
to a range of specially developed and contextualised curriculum and teaching resources through Oresome Resources, the QRC’s education website.
(Ipswich Campus) Hosted by NDIS, the Community Services Gateway to Industry Schools project is designed to advance the opportunities for youth in Queensland’s growing community services sector through cohesive locally relevant partnerships. From community care to youth justice, from homelessness to disability support, the community services sector serves as an entrance to enduring and diverse careers.
(All campuses) The Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools project (GISP_AM) encourages sustainable partnerships between industry, government and community to build Queensland’s manufacturing and engineering workforce for the future. Gateway to Industry teachers and students engage with industry from both trade and professional backgrounds. The GISP_AM provides industry insights, evidence and connections to the advancing manufacturing industries.
A range of experiences are offered to broaden science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) knowledge and develop best practice models of pipelining talent to advanced manufacturing industries, including:
a. aerospace and defence b. digital and print media
c. construction
d. textiles, leather, clothing and footwear e. mining equipment, technology and services
f. transport (vehicle, marine, rail) g. resources and renewable energy h. biomedical and biotechnology i. agriculture (including precision agriculture) j. food and beverage processing k. design and furnishings.
(Application in ProgressBrisbane & Toowoomba) Hosted by Aviation Australia, The Aerospace Gateway Schools Project team works collaboratively with the school, partnering industry and participating employers to ensure a strong industry focus to structured learning opportunities; provides a calendar of activities and structured learning opportunities including guest speakers, structured workplace training, work experience placements and teaching staff currency opportunities; facilitates enduring partnerships that support the future employment of young people in the industry; publishes regular e-newsletters and manage a dedicate resource portal, marketing activities and social media channels linked to the program; organises specific program activities such as the annual twoday Teacher Professional Development Conference and Aerospace Industry Education Awards.
VASHTI ANDERSON - InterviewVashti Anderson, Team Leader, from our Sunshine Coast campus started at the AITC in January of 2021, a time where education was still being greatly affected due to the pandemic.
Vashti always wanted to be a teacher but started in minerals processing engineering when she first finished school. “I realised when I started working in a mine that it was not for me because there are only rocks to talk to,” she laughs.
During her final semester at university everything was shut down do to COVID. “I didn’t get to complete my final prac because schools weren’t accepting student teachers at that time,” says Vashti. “Our final assessment was done using hypothetical case studies which was really challenging. Once I finally got to step into the classroom, after I graduated, that’s when the real learning began.
Being an exceptional violinist Vashti was also a music teacher, “I used to run string programs at various schools. I wanted to have a permanent position where I would have my own classroom, and my own young people, and have some kind of permanency,” she says. Vashti saw the position come up at the AITC while working on contract at another independent school.
“The journey has been great. I had been teaching for one semester before I began teaching here at the AITC,” says Vashti. “I’m teaching essential Maths and English to Year 11 and 12 young people. I’m flexible in my teaching areas. It’s been good to explore those curriculum areas.”
“I found the mentoring here to be wonderful because it’s such a close-knit team. I was working with Amanda Taylor on the English curriculum, and she was a wonderful mentor, and role model for me, so I was lucky.
At the AITC “I like that we have connections with our young people. I love by the end of Year 12 we know them well. We’ve seen them
develop into young adults with their own career journey and when they graduate it’s an amazing experience.”
The AITC industry education program encourages that development. “We have busy young people and they like to be kept busy. The division of blocks for education and then industry, where they work physically (in either work experience or as an apprentice/ trainee) works well for these young people,” reflects Vashti. “Every time they come back after their industry blocks they’ve grown up so much, particularly in the Year 11 space, we really see that change each time they come back.”
I like that we have connections with our young people. I love by the end of Year 12 we know them well.TEAM LEADER, SUNSHINE COAST
The Toowoomba campus Shave for a Cure was an event created and driven from the heart. Bella (Year 11) lost her grandfather to blood cancer and wanted to make an impact to honour his memory.
“The treatment he was going to receive had been used for over 40 years and had a low success rate,” Bella says.
Bella gained permission to use the AITC Toowoomba as the platform to promote the event. With the support of campus leadership and Jan Gilbert (Assistant Team Leader), Bella then pitched her idea to the Toowoomba cohort and also to her employer. Coincidentally, Bella is also signed-up into a barbering apprenticeship at Sarge’s in Toowoomba.
The resounding support was touching. Even to the point that Landon (Year 11) stepped forward and volunteered to lose his mullet in memory of his father whom he lost when he was two — also to blood cancer.
Sarge’s Barbershop jumped in too and offered not just Bella, but fellow AITC school-based apprentice barber — Austin (Year 11), for the task of professionally ‘doing the job’ with equipment borrowed from the shop. The same amount for Bella and Austin’s wages for the day were donated by Sarge’s Barber.
The goals were set at an impressive and ambitious $1,500. More courageous young people came forward and committed to dying or cutting their hair for the great cause. This included Jasmine who shaved and also donated her hair for creation into a real-hair wig for the hair donation program.
A mystery staff member put their commitment on the record and a whole new guessing game with every donation ensued. The hype and energy was steadily built through internal promotions, hot chocolate fundraisers, and personal
campaigns all to see who could raise the highest amount — with parents sharing and driving social media promotions. The once ambitious target of $1,500 was quickly surpassed and the group of dedicated young people began to realise the huge impact they were having.
As the big day rushed towards them, additional helpers were recruited in the form of Elisa and Amanda (Industry Consultants) to assist with prizes and support from our industry partners. In one day, our Toowoomba helpers had organised hoodies, beanies, free coffees, free shirts, gift cards, free haircuts, and much more which were eventually divided up into goodie bags.
The big day arrived for the shave and the target sat at just over $7,000 — over four times the original target! Parents, friends, and support people along with staff and young people all cheered and clapped as the first hair hit the ground during a particularly chilly Toowoomba morning in June.
“With the money raised people like my Pa
and many others who have the same story, will be given the chance to receive better treatment,” says Bella.
What was a brilliant and fun afternoon which was the result of hard work, pride, courage, and mateship. It was emotional to see the way the AITC Toowoomba community, young people, parents, friends, industry and staff all rallied behind this wonderful cause.
And who was our mystery staff member? Toowoomba’s amazing Administrator Coordinator, Jen McDonnell — thank you to Jen.
Also a huge thank you to everyone for their time and effort to make this day happen. Thank you for everyone who shaved, donated, or coloured their hair, for being brave and raising money for people who are suffering from blood cancer in Australia.
“AS A COMMUNITY I BELIEVED WE COULD DO MORE
Jasmine and Bella raised enough money to give a regional family a free place to stay close to treatment in the city for one week.
Landon and Joe have both raised enough money to provide two weeks of accommodation for families facing blood cancer who live far away from life-saving treatment. As a school the AITC raised enough money to fund three months of laboratory costs for a research project to discover better treatment for blood
“
Our Brisbane young people commenced their first Gift of Giving project at Northey Street City Farm. They helped clean, clear and rehabilitate the compost area as it was damaged by flooding earlier in the year. They worked hard by taking away all the mud and doing a bit of weeding in the gardens. Nealle, the site manager, visited the Brisbane campus prior to the work to talk about the farm, debrief our young people and discuss what was needed on the site. As a wonderful gesture the Northey Street Farm team organised a delicious lunch for all the hard-working volunteers who help at the community gardens.
Founded in 1994, Northey Street City Farm has since created a vibrant green oasis in the heart of Brisbane. The Northey Street team want the farm to be an inspirational working model of a community-based urban permaculture farm which promotes and educates for sustainability. The farm is a non-profit community organisation situated on the banks of Brisbane’s Breakfast Creek in Windsor. More than 1500 exotic and native fruit trees, bush food plants, shrubs and ground covers have been planted on the four hectare farm site since its inception.
It has been developed for people to enjoy and participate in using the principles of permaculture. It is also intended to be a demonstration site where people of all ages can learn through practical, hands-on experience.
blueprint australian industry trade college
Patients at the Ipswich Hospital will soon enjoy better rehabilitation outcomes thanks to the support of the Australian Industry Trade College (Ipswich) and Bunnings Bundamba.
Jude Brown, Nurse Unit Manager at Ipswich Hospital for the Rehabilitation and Acute Stroke Unit, commented on our recent Gift of Giving project. “We have an inpatient unit with an outdoor area and the young people are here cleaning it up, doing maintenance, so our patients can actually come out here to a safe, clean area which is amazing. It looks awesome already — even after having the young people here for half a day.
“This unit is for patients who are in hospital for a long time. To have an outdoor area they can get out to, instead of being in their beds all the time, is therapeutic. I feel honoured that AITC young people are here creating a buzz, they are able to help out, put back into the community, and to the hospital.
“Thank you from our unit to the AITC for coming in to do this maintenance,” says Jude.
While at the Ipswich Hospital staff talked with our young people about early stroke detection and discussed early prevention, how to decrease risks, and what to look out for regarding an acute stroke.
Our mid-year 2022 Ipswich Rookies worked on the Memorial Garden at the Ipswich Hospital. The Memorial Garden is a special place for families to pay respects to babies lost too soon. Young people had been tidying up and weeding this important area of the hospital.
CEO of the Ipswich Hospital Foundation, Scott Young says, “It’s fabulous to have the AITC students here. The AITC young men and women have done a fabulous job in weeding the gardens and making the Memorial Garden look respectful. I think it’s great to have them involved in the community here at the Ipswich Hospital.”
Tom Lewis, Industry Consultant at the AITC Ipswich campus, says “AITC young people can take pride in the work they’ve done at the Ipswich Hospital Memorial Garden. We class this as our first work experience placement, look at employability metrics, and will give young people feedback when they return to campus. It’s a great feeling to provide some much-needed help in the community for areas needing volunteers.”
RQC Construction and YourTown came in to chat with our Gold Coast Rookies to give them a safety briefing prior to their work commencement at the YourTown prize home. RQC stands for Respect, Quality and Connection — which are their values and they are committed to engaging with and making their community a better place.
YourTown renovate beautiful homes to raffle off. The project our young people worked on was their Grand Christmas prize home in Tallebudgera. money raised from tickets goes to Kids Helpline and women’s refuge centres. Gold Coast rookies worked tirelessly all day shovelling dirt, painting, and tidying the grounds.
YourTown and RQC said the young people “exceeded their expectations”, and were blown away with their professional, hardworking attitude.
Arundel Park Riding for Disabled Inc (APRDA) is a not-for-profit charity organisation founded in 1981 with the focus to provide a horse riding experience for children and adults with a disability. Their mission is to enable all riders, non-riders and support personnel to achieve personal, physical and intellectual goals through a range of related activities in an equestrian environment. For over 40 years volunteers have been instrumental in the everyday activities and running of this service. APRDA volunteers assist with many things including yard work and helping in the stables.
For their Gift of Giving project our Gold Coast young people went to APRDA to assist with cleaning/tidying the paddocks for the horses and assisting with horse care. Young people fed horses, tacked horses, cleaned stables, and assisted the stable manager with many other needs. They did an amazing job with our team contributing to a wonderful organisation and learning more about the requirements of work experience.
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