PROTECH APPRENTICES & TRAINEES: GEORGE NORMAN
Entering his final year of high school, George had not yet decided on his industry pathway but was open to new opportunities. Though his career path seemed uncertain, George was work-ready and experienced – it was then that he was presented with the opportunity to work with Protech while still at school.
Protech’s school-based traineeship offering provides an opportunity for soon-to-be school leavers to ease the transition into their chosen career path. Students can gain recognised qualifications in a range of industries while benefitting from the experience of being out in the workforce; all while receiving support and guidance from Protech as their employer. With his dilemma and uncertainty for his future, this offering was the perfect solution for George, and afforded him a valuable head start in the civil construction industry.
“The opportunities provided through this partnership with Protech enabled George a foot in the door to prove his worth, to experience the real workplace, and the chance for him to shine,” says George’s mother, Lily Norman.
Protech Rookies Program
Commencing in January of 2021, Protech’s Rookies Program was run in partnership with Australian Industry Trade College (AITC) to provide school-based apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities to ten participants. This cohort was made up of two students undertaking a mechanical engineering apprenticeship, and eight students, of which George was one, undertaking a civil construction traineeship.
The program was designed to give George and the other recruits a chance to experience what life would be like in the civil construction industry, as well as providing the basic skills necessary to thrive in a technical environment. Made even more beneficial to the group of young recruits was the practical on-site training being offered through Protech’s partners CPB Contractors, on one of the largest civil construction projects in Queensland: Brisbane’s Cross River Rail Project.
Contributing to the Infrastructure of Tomorrow: Brisbane’s Cross River Rail
Brisbane’s Cross River Rail Project is a new 10.2km rail line seeking to accommodate a growing population by modernising South-East Queensland’s public transport system. The project is an invaluable opportunity for trainees like George to gain meaningful industry experience working with a range of professionals and industry veterans.
The Cross River Rail Project is an example of the large-scale worksites Protech offers to their employees. With a project of its size, there are many opportunities for career growth, as well as the benefits of stable, long-term employment.
“George was determined and motivated to complete his academic studies for year 12, alongside the civil construction traineeship at Cross River Rail,” says Lily Norman.
Protech’s Continued Support
At the program’s completion, George went on to continue his traineeship with Shamrock Civil, supported by Protech’s industry connections, opportunities, and mentorship. Protech is determined to help people gain the skills they need to succeed in the construction industry.
As Lily summarised perfectly, “it isn’t just about getting a person into a job; it’s about cultivating confident, motivated young people.”
Protech Apprentices & Trainees
To bridge the gap between education and the workforce, Protech offers school-based traineeships to help lead young people into their desired career path. These traineeships allow high school students to develop the skills and knowledge of the workplace while still at school; giving them the opportunity to earn an income while they learn, and helping them get ahead of other applicants in the industry.
