Taste of machining industry keeps Henry keen for an apprenticeship
By Greg Chapman
Henry King’s dream of securing an apprenticeship is one step closer to reality with CQUniversity giving him a taste of the machining and fabrication industries.
The 15-year-old Marist College Emerald student recently participated in CQU’s Machining and Fabrication Fundamentals Career Taster at the Emerald campus and went away excited about the future possibilities.
“I heard about it from a teacher at school. I wanted to have a go at machining and fabrication and learn more about what the trade involves,” Henry said.
“I made a boat anchor and a few other things. I got to do some cutting and welding, and learn how to use a guillotine, MIG and oxy welders, bandsaw, bench and angle grinders and a belt sander.
“I learned some new skills and got some good hands-on experience. I enjoyed it and thought it was a good way to learn about the trade.”
Henry’s mum Jaclyn said she thought Career Tasters was a great idea.
“It gave Henry the chance to explore a trade and get a better idea of what he might like to do in the future. It’s also a great way for him to build confidence, try something new, and step outside his comfort zone,” she said.
“We think these opportunities are really important, especially for kids who are interested in a trade but aren’t quite sure which direction they want to go. Being able to get hands-on experience and learn from qualified tradespeople gives them a much better understanding of what’s involved and helps them see what opportunities are out there.
“We’re really grateful that Henry had the opportunity to take part in Career Tasters. It’s been a great experience for him, and we’ve already recommended it to friends. We think programs like this are a fantastic way to help young people discover what they enjoy and give them a bit more confidence about their future.”
Henry said he was “glad he got the chance to give it a go” and that it helped him consider further study.
“It was a good experience. It gave me a better idea of what machining and fabrication is like. I’d like to get an apprenticeship as a boilermaker when I finish school,” he said.
Career Tasters is available to eligible Year 10 students across Queensland and is a joint initiative of the Australian Government and Queensland Government.
