Training the key to success for apprentices

Australia and the world are experiencing a business slow down not seen before by the current generation.

We, along with other economies have experienced economic slow downs, recessions and even depressions which most of us remember and have gained valuable lessons from. We need to utilise the knowledge gained
from past experience to take advantage ofnbusiness opportunities that will come when this current down turn starts to subside.

During recessions job numbers decrease, staff redundancies occur and expenditure on what are seen as non essential outgoings is curtailed. Training is often put into the non- essential expenditure category. This is a serious mistake that has had major impact on businesses and industries in the recent past.

As a result of the recession in the early 90s, a major skill shortage occurred in the years after. The economy grew, demand increased but what restricted growth and led to a lot of production being lost to overseas manufacturers was the shortage of skilled workers, and the lack of young people, apprentices, coming through the training system and turning into qualified trades staff.

These are tough, uncertain times and many businesses are struggling. But even with reduced demand and output there is not a glut of tradespeople.

In addition, a large percentage of those tradespeople currently in the work force are nearing retirement age which will compound the skill shortage in the not too distant future.

Training of staff, especially apprentices, must become a priority. The acquisition of trade skills does not happen overnight, it takes time, several years in fact, to gain the knowledge and skills required of a competent tradesperson.

So rather than wait until the recovery occurs we believe that industry should look to employ trainees and apprentices now so that businesses are better equipped and prepared to handle the future increase in work loads.

Australian Industry Group Training Services can help you meet the training challenge. AiGTS is a quality approved group training company owned and operated by Australia’s leading employer association, the Australian
Industry Group.

AiGTS provides training, advice and employment services that address the current and future needs of industry. All training is structured around industry endorsed National Training Packages.

They aim to provide industry with a quality employment and training service that can address the ever-changing workforce requirements built upon the key reforms of the national industry-led training system.

Their employment and training advisers are now available to discuss training needs and opportunities.

Australian Industry Group Training Service
Ph: 1300 761 944
www.aigts.com.au