An alliance of local trades-based peak bodies is calling on ACT and federal leaders, policy and decision makers to celebrate and prioritise development of the next generation of local tradies, ahead of National Apprenticeship Week from February 9^th to 15^th next week.

Master Builders ACT, Master Plumbers ACT and NECA ACT believe while there is great work being done by government and industry encouraging the take-up of trade apprenticeships, we can always strive for better.

“National Apprenticeship Week is a time to celebrate our next generation of tradies, whether they’re working to become builders, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, motor mechanics, roofers, boilermakers or any of the other magnificent and essential trades we need to service our economy and way of life here in Canberra,” Master Builders ACT CEO, Anna Neelagama said.

“Building and maintaining that constant, qualified and professional workforce through quality apprenticeships is something the ACT and Commonwealth governments need to keep front of mind. Balancing the workforce to meet market conditions is also essential to keep life in Canberra and indeed across the country moving,” Master Plumbers ACT CEO, Joe Prevedello said.

“Ensuring the ongoing attraction of taking up a trades-apprenticeship for students, school leavers and mature age candidates is critical when there are so many career choices out there. Then, once the choice is made to take on an apprenticeship, having the best possible education and training is very important to ensure ongoing professionalism, quality and reputation for trades in the future,” Regional Manager NECA Training and Apprenticeships, Michelle Ellis said.

The peak body alliance also agrees continued work on ‘destigmatising’ trades-based careers, along with fostering industry pride and promoting the ongoing benefits of a trade career are important focus points for both government and industry.