Connect with workforce experts
Some 200 local business leaders have gained insights into workplace-based training at GOTAFE’s 2024 Industry Connector Events.
Building on the success of last year’s events, the theme for this year’s Industry Connector Events was: Accelerating our region’s workforce potential through workplace-based training.
Nicholas Wyman, who began his career as an apprentice in Melbourne and is now an internationally renowned workplace-based training expert, spoke at all three events in Seymour, Shepparton and Wangaratta.
He emphasised that the learning needs of industry have changed and that employers needed to take a holistic approach to skills development, and to tailor training programs to match the specific needs and timelines of both the employee and the organisation.
GOTAFE’s Executive Director Student Experience Laura Baker said the events provided support to businesses considering employing an apprentice or trainee.
“Workplace based training, including apprenticeships and traineeships, plays a vital role in building our future workforce in our region,” Ms Baker said.
“We know the needs of our communities and industries are continually changing and GOTAFE plays an important role in responding to those needs.
“Facilitating events like these ensure employers have access to the information they need to make decisions about how best to meet their workforce needs.”
GOTAFE alumni Jono Chan spoke briefly at the Shepparton Industry Connector breakfast, held at the Common Ground Cafe at Fryers Street.
Jono completed a commercial cookery apprenticeship while co-managing award winning business Elsewhere at SAM, before graduating in March 2024.
“Having been an apprentice and now employing apprentices in my business, I know the value of workplace-based training,” he said.
“It’s a model that worked for me and helps build skills in our existing workforce.”
Learn more about apprenticeships and traineeships
Whether you are a business owner considering taking on someone who's fresh out of school, or someone looking for a change of career after a few years in the workforce, apprentices and trainees bring a fresh perspective and contemporary learnings to the workplace and ensure trade skills are passed down to the next generation of workers.