High-Vis Army initiative continues to produce job-ready graduates

Tasmania’s civil construction workforce continues to grow, with another round of graduates recently completing the High-Vis Army Civil Construction Pre-Employment Program in Burnie.

The graduates undertook a six-week program, gaining skills and knowledge for a range of roles including civil labouring, truck driving, traffic control, pipe-laying, plant-operating, concreting and a range of other skilled roles in civil construction.

CCF Tasmania CEO Andrew Winch congratulated the graduates, saying it was fantastic to see the civil construction industry gain another crop of new talent, that are job-ready and keen to get out there.

“Up-skilling people to work in our expanding civil construction industry is, and continues to be, our priority, and gives us great certainty for the pipeline of projects ahead,” he said.

Participants finished their course with work experience placement with CCF Tasmania’s host employers, Stornoway and Treloar Civil.  All graduates have been offered work through this program.

Stornoway CEO Brad Johnson said Stornoway were delighted with the level and depth of training the participants received.

“Participants gained civil related skills and foundations in project management.  These skills along with obtaining their white card meant they finished the program job-ready for the civil sector,” he said.

TasTAFE’s Civil Construction Education Manager, Sean Crane said TasTAFE was committed to supporting the workforce development needs of the civil construction industry.

“Programs like this initiative are vital in helping to attract, train and supply a job-ready workforce for upcoming civil projects,” he said.

Feedback from graduates was very positive.  Sheree O’Day, a qualified beautician said she saw a flyer at a job agency and was keen to try something hands on, and outdoors.  “It was completely out of my comfort zone, however the support to get through the program was really helpful,” she said.

Nikita Quillerat had always wanted to try something like this but lacked confidence.  “The group has been really good, everyone has supported each other,” she said.

Billy Ryan had previously worked as a labourer and in farming jobs.  “It’s being a great experience and has enabled me to grow in confidence,” he said.

All three enjoyed the program and are excited about what the future holds for them.

Andrew Winch congratulated all the graduates on their commitment to the course and can’t wait to see them and many more take on this program to work in the growing civil construction industry.

CCF Tasmania will be running another program in the North-West commencing early 2024.