Gladstone Workforce Skilling Strategy Graduates Help Soften Local Skills Shortage
Wednesday, 21 December 2011 14:51
One hundred local participants of the Gladstone Workforce Skilling Strategy (GWSS) are ready to address the booming energy industry’s workforce needs, after becoming the first to graduate from the leading-edge program.
GWSS fast tracks participants into essential areas of construction, engineering, administration and hospitality within booming local industries.
GWSS Project Manager Karen Bellert said 80 of the graduates have already secured jobs in local industries with more graduates finding employment every day.
“The Gladstone Workforce Skilling Strategy is not only providing participants with the qualifications and skills for a career in the energy sector, but it’s also ensuring the growing industry has the skilled workforce it needs,” Ms Bellert said.
“The early success of so many of our participants really demonstrates the local area’s need for the Gladstone Workforce Skilling Strategy.
“A shortage of skilled workers creates a potential logjam right across the Queensland economy – not just in the energy sector. This program is helping alleviate that pressure,” she said.
The first group of Gladstone graduates has undertaken industry training, participated in work experience and completed a job readiness program to give them a springboard into their careers.
The QGC Gladstone Workforce Skilling Strategy Graduation Dinner was held at the Yaralla Sports Club with 190 people in attendance to celebrate the achievements of this first group of graduates.
“It was a fantastic night. We were extremely excited to honour all of our participants and to thank those in local businesses and industry who took participants on in work experience roles or who have provided full time employment opportunities,” Ms Bellert said.
“Gladstone job seekers and those looking for a new career can still take advantage of the opportunities that are becoming readily available in the state.”
The Gladstone Workforce Skilling Strategy is funded by the Australian Government’s Indigenous Employment Program and the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.
ESQ will unveil exciting plans to expand this program in early 2012.
For more information on the Gladstone Workforce Skilling Strategy contact project manager Karen Bellert on 0448 085 118 or visit:
www.careersinenergy.com.au
