Singleton employment program aims to support local construction skills

Published on 06 March 2023

A-Plus Contracting + Poly Welding General Manager Damian Hamilton and HSEQ Manager Mick Hampson and Singleton Council Employment Pathways Advisor Riki Ward.jpg

A new program to train local Singleton people in entry level construction skills aims to match newly skilled and eager-to-work staff with employers as the first step in helping address a shortage of residential, commercial, and civil construction workers in the Singleton local government area (LGA).

Facilitated by Singleton Council’s Employment Pathways and Industry and Workforce Development Programs in partnership with Signature Learning, A-Plus Contracting & Poly Welding and fully-funded by the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions program, Singleton residents who are unemployed and looking for a job in the construction industry are being encouraged to submit an expression of interest ahead of commencement of the four-day course on 21 March 2023.

The program has been custom designed to address the needs of local employers, through consultation with local construction businesses on their needs.

Up to 20 participants will take part in the four-day course in Singleton and, once complete, Council’s Employment Pathways Advisor will facilitate introductions to local employers.

Vicki Brereton, Council’s Director Organisation and Community Capacity said Branxton-based company A-Plus Contracting & Poly Welding would sponsor the supply of all personal protective equipment (PPE) for course attendees not eligible for support to purchase these items, as well as provide a practical work site for training purposes.

Learning modules would include use of hand and power tools, operating small plant and equipment and roller vehicle operations.

“We know that all areas of construction – from residential builders to civil construction – have significant staff shortages and are looking for great local staff to put on their rosters, and this program will deliver the right people with the right skills and attitude they’re looking for,” Ms Brereton said.

“While labour shortages in this industry are being felt nation-wide, especially in the wake of COVID and floods, we know there are people locally that we can connect with local businesses and skills and job opportunities.

“If you’re currently unemployed – whether you’re a school leaver, returning to work and looking to change careers – and want to work in the construction industry, I encourage you to submit an expression of interest and get involved.”

Participants are required to attend four days of training from 21-24 March 2023 from 7am to 3pm.

For more information about the program or to submit an expression of interest, visit https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Business/Business-and-Employment-Programs/Singleton-Employment-Pathways-Program, or contact Council’s Employment Pathways Advisor Riki Ward on T 02 6578 7290.

A-Plus Contracting & Poly Welding is a leading Hunter Valley earthmoving and civil works contracting company specialising in civil projects, poly welding and fabrication, environmental management and tilt tray services.  

 

ENDS