October 8, 2008
Around 600 local apprentices are currently employed through Gippsland Group Training (GGT).
During a tour of GGT’s Morwell training centre, The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester and Member for Morwell Russell Northe were told that the organisation has 1250 apprentices currently employed, with around half located in Gippsland.
Mr Chester said the preference among new apprentices was to seek training in the core building trades of electricians, plumbers and builders.
“However, Gippsland Group Training and other education providers are working proactively to encourage more young people to train in engineering,” Mr Chester said.
“With such a large power industry in the Latrobe Valley, there are many opportunities for young engineers to gain high-end employment in the sector.
“GGT is one of a number of local agencies which has been striving to make young people aware of this career option and create pathways to access the necessary training.”
Mr Chester said he was impressed by the scope of work being undertaken by Gippsland Group training.
In addition to GGT, Mr Chester and Mr Northe this week met with the Baw Baw Latrobe Local Learning Employment Network (LLEN) and the new Pro Vice Chancellor at Monash University, Professor Helen Bartlett.
Both have offered their full support to any new initiatives which would create more employment and training opportunities for young people in Gippsland.