The showcase provides students and jobseekers with real-world insights into what certain roles and sectors are really like to work in.
Hyne Timber’s Stakeholder Engagement Manager, James Hyne said the expo presented a great opportunity to launch this new collaboration.
“Hyne Timber and Downer are two of the largest private employers across the region, collectively delivering around 300 years’ experience in manufacturing.
“We understand the importance of a skilled work force in the Fraser Coast. Our Fraser Coast Skills Program (FCSP) is an important collaboration, particularly targeting those who already love and call this region home. With the right partnerships and programs, some of the most rewarding careers are right here.
“We have proudly called Maryborough home since 1882, innovating and growing with a talented and passionate team along the way.
“We supply across the eastern seaboard and beyond, predominantly ending up in new, family homes and that is something all our team are proudly a part of.” Mr Hyne said.
The partners have come together with input from government and higher education providers, with the goal of implementing programs to develop thought leadership, intellectual capability and the skilled workforce necessary to establish a sustainable FCSP. The FCSP will also work with other employers, as well as education provides in the region to ensure success.
Downer’s Queensland Operations General Manager, Tony Prove said Downer has invested in the development of their 150-year-old Maryborough facility as well as the capability of their workforce to deliver world-class trains for the people of Queensland.
“Through the Fraser Coast Skills Program, we are proud to build a trusted relationship between two of the region’s largest employers which enables a successful future for manufacturing in the Fraser Coast.” Mr Prove said.
The collaborative announcement has been well received across the region including by the Chair of the Fraser Coast Regional Jobs Committee, Michelle Hay,
“We’re thrilled at this announcement of the collaboration among some of our region’s major employers. We know we need to develop the skills base of our workers and provide robust local career paths – this helps our employers develop and maintain a stable workforce and it enables young people and families to nurture a solid future without having to leave their own region.
“We also know these two companies have plenty in common in terms of some of the skills and qualities they’re looking for in their employees.
“A joint skills program like this enables them to share training costs and all benefit from growing local talent, while still being able to nurture the specific skills that make each company unique.
“It has the potential to give a significant boost to the Fraser Coast workforce and local economy over time” Ms Hay said.
The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding and part of the collaboration moving forward, is to work with key stakeholders to ensure trade school, training facilities and skills are right for today’s requirements and those of the future for such as apprentices and tradespeople for Industry 4.0.
The partners were represented at the Fraser Coast Industry & Careers Showcase on Wednesday 12 October to officially launch the program to the 2,000 strong crowd who are wanting to gain hands-on experiences and access to industry experts.
For information on careers at Hyne Timber, visit: https://www.hyne.com.au/careers
