Prospective welders get a look at the trade

FIVE local secondary school students have been given an insight into a career in welding during a Women in Trade Bootcamp hosted by BGT Jobs and Training Ballarat.

The intensive four-day welding education program took place at the BGT Skills Centre and was delivered jointly by the AMWU Women in Manufacturing Victorian branch and jobs agency APM.

After a centre induction and a tour of the skills centre, participants were kitted up with jackets, helmets and safety gear before being taught how to use the various types of welding equipment and guillotines, and being allowed time to practice and develop their skills.

BGT Skills Centre trainer and assessor Adrian VanDeur praised the students’ enthusiasm and dedication.

“The young women worked incredibly hard throughout the week, eager to test their new skills,” Mr VanDeur said.

“These introductory bootcamps provide a fantastic opportunity for people to see if welding and manufacturing might be a career path for them.

“We hope to see some of these participants return to BGT to complete their qualifications and go on to starting an apprenticeship in the future.”

Skills Centre manager Bill Burgess emphasised the importance of encouraging more women into trades.

“BGT is committed to supporting women in exploring careers in engineering, manufacturing and welding,” he said.

“One of the key advantages of training with BGT is the strong support networks and industry connections we can provide.

“There are so many opportunities in these fields and we’re here to support women succeed in these careers if they choose to pursue them.”

AMWU Women in Manufacturing project officer Courteney Munn agreed.

“There is opportunity for women to make great money in welding and progress a career in trades,” she said.

“Programs such as this introductory bootcamp are really important to give participants a taste of what it’s like and to show them that it’s a solid and rewarding career path.”

Two participants have continued into school-based apprenticeships since the program’s launch last year.

BGT is reporting increasing demand and plans to run bootcamps as regularly as possible.