Desperate to address the skills shortage and increase trade apprenticeship numbers, industry groups have been working to establish new programs that could make a real difference in this space.
For example, employer organisation, the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group), is working on an innovative new project to establish degree-level apprenticeships in Queensland.
This project will establish a pilot to combine a degree in electrical engineering with a Certificate III electrical trade qualification, all delivered as an apprenticeship.
This combination of the two qualifications will provide the individual with the theoretical skills gained through an engineering degree with the practical skills gained through a hands-on Certificate III trade apprenticeship.
Ai Group will work with a university and a vocational education provider, or a dual sector provider, to develop the program.
A new blended qualification will be developed that ensures detail is only taught once, although assessed separately to meet the requirements of each qualification. This will see some reductions in the amount of class time expected of apprentices.
The intention is to deliver the blended program in a way that more closely resembles apprenticeship training rather than a traditional university model.
The project will aim for an annual commencement intake of 30 degree-level apprentices starting in 2024.
Another project being rolled out by the Ai Group is geared toward women and is designed to help employers struggling to attract apprentices and trainees to fill entry-level roles.
Many women do not realise an apprenticeship or traineeship in a trade of choice can kickstart a rewarding career.
To help bridge the gap, the Women in STEM Project is helping to support female apprentices and trainees in STEM industries such as engineering and Industry 4.0.
The idea is to get more women into mechanical engineering and manufacturing instead of traditional trades such as carpentry or plumbing.