TODAY’s opening of the Mandurah Trades Skills Centre at Coodanup Community College is a step towards growing employment opportunities in the Peel region.
Under the Trade Training Centres in Schools program, the Federal Government has contributed $3,285,000 to help transition local students from school into the workforce and on to careers.
Canning MHR Andrew Hastie, who opened the centre, said by giving local students skills for life, the centre would bring economic security to students in a workforce that was increasingly automated.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“Vocational training matters,’’ he said.
“The construction industry is the single largest employer in this city with 1256 houses approved for construction last year and that’s even before we consider non-residential and commercial development.’’
Mr Hastie welcomed the centre’s inclusion of painting and construction workshops and cited the Mandurah Forum redevelopment and ship building at Henderson as prime examples of growing industries in need of skilled workers.
“It’s all about the next generation of tradies in Mandurah,’’ he said.
“The skills learned here could take students anywhere in Australia.
“We will always need tradespeople.”
MORE: Perth Stadium becomes Optus Stadium
MORE: Perth weather: thunder only happens when it’s raining (maybe)
MORE: Target UnitingCare Christmas Appeal kicks off this week