Creating a pipeline of skilled trainees
Inland Rail is creating employment opportunities and helping local businesses grow their workforce.
March 21, 2024
Local plumber Josh Trimble’s business has operated in the Wangaratta area for more than 15 years and since starting work on Inland Rail’s Beveridge to Albury section, he’s almost doubled his workforce.
With a team of 11 staff, including five apprentices, Josh recognises the valuable employment opportunities he’s been able to offer local youths.
“Our apprentices are at various stages of their training. The work with Inland Rail and contractor McConnell Dowell provides on-the-job training,” Josh said.
“Safety is a priority. As an employer of people at the beginning of their careers I have confidence that they are getting the necessary tools to work safely on a day-to-day basis.”
Josh admits it’s rare to get exposure to a job this size early on in a career and the opportunity gives apprentices the confidence to take the next step.
Josh Trimble onsite at Murray Valley Highway, Barnawartha North.
As a smaller contractor working on a large-scale project, McConnell Dowell has been incredibly supportive of the team onsite.
“The structure of a school-based apprenticeship links education to employment and the experience of day-to-day operations. The McConnell Dowell team of site supervisors create a great environment and are fantastic with the trainees,” he said.
“Following the completion of their apprenticeships, trainees often go on to complete their plumbing licences or pursue further training.
“A job like Inland Rail doesn’t come along that frequently and it presents a fantastic opportunity and exposure to a national job.”
Inland Rail site at Murray Valley Highway, Barnawartha North.
Main Image: From left, Josh Trimble with his staff Josh Coonan and Leigh Maples.
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