Wide Bay Institute of TAFE and Queensland Water Infrastructure Pty Ltd (QWI) have signed an agreement that will give locals the opportunity to enter into the booming construction industry. The agreement will see targeted, hands on training programs delivered to meet the needs of the construction of major regional infrastructure projects in the region, including the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam and upgrades to the Bruce Highway. Wide Bay Institute of TAFE Acting Institute Director Robyn Dyer said ultimately the programs will be designed to get more people into jobs across the region. “By targeting programs specific to the requirements of the construction industry, locals will get the hands on experience they need to fast track their career,” Ms Dyer said. “We’ll be targeting long term unemployed, new job seekers and people re-entering the workforce with specific programs, like blue card accreditation, to ensure they have every opportunity to work on major projects planned for the region,” she said. December 2007 ABS statistics show that the Gympie region experiences a higher unemployment
level than the Queensland and Australian average. QWI Chief Executive Officer Graeme Newton said its not every day that a region like Gympie gets the opportunity to have multiple billion dollar infrastructure projects constructed in its backyard. “These projects provide a fantastic catalyst for locals to develop new skills that translate into real
career opportunities,” Mr Newton said. “By combining major infrastructure with vocational education, you are looking at a lasting, positive
legacy for local communities.” The partnership between QWI and Wide Bay Institute of TAFE has already seen more than 200 locals complete Blue Card Accreditation programs and Welcome Mary Valley initiatives that assist local businesses to promote themselves and their region. These programs will be continued and expanded during the life of the major construction projects
planned for the region. |