Sparking an interest in a manufacturing over the school holidays

Toowoomba high school students have swapped working in a fast-food restaurant to immersing themselves in manufacturing for an exciting change of pace over the holidays.

The experience within industry is now creating interest in a career that some weren’t considering until they stepped foot in a factory.

Wagners New Generation Building Materials Executive General Manager, Michael Kemp said it’s been great to have three students working in the company over the summer holidays.

“This is one of the many pathways which can lead to a rewarding and challenging career with Wagners,” said Mr Kemp.

“The aim is to expose local students to the range of opportunities we have available, whilst also giving them insight and understanding of what a manufacturing facility is like.”

“Showing our local students that there is a broad spectrum of careers to choose from and hopefully put them on the pathway to success,” said Mr Kemp.

Another local business showcasing the manufacturing sector to local teens is TTQ.

TTQ Director Geraint Hudson agrees that giving students a taste of the industry can have big benefits for the future.

“If you haven’t helped build the next generation of skilled tradesman you can’t sit there and complain there aren’t any around,” said Mr Hudson.

“We’ve taken on a few younger students who are 14 and 15-year-olds whose parents suggested they try it, instead of being bored throughout the school holidays.”

“They’re enjoying some good pocket money and realising that there’s a career pathway in manufacturing which has longevity,” said Mr Hudson.

It’s hoped that showcasing the sector to school students will encourage them to pursue a rewarding career on the Downs.

TSBE General Manager for Energy and Infrastructure Lance MacManus said it’s great to see local businesses investing in the region’s future.

“There are so many exciting opportunities in this space, especially with supply chain issues caused by COVID-19 highlighting the demand for local manufacturing,” said Mr MacManus.

“I’d encourage all school students to consider a career in manufacturing and get in touch with a Toowoomba business to find out if there are any school holiday programs available this year.”

School students who do pursue a job after graduating will add to the region’s manufacturing sector which contributes $2.4 billion to the local economy.