August 10th, 2025Next gen of construction workers

Geelong’s next generation of construction workers are getting job-ready, connecting with employers, and prepared to start their apprenticeships with confidence.

A showcase hosted by Apprenticeships Victoria and The Gordon in East Geelong, had construction apprentices demonstrating their skills and connected with employers.

The showcase was for students and graduates from pre-apprenticeship courses in carpentry, electrotech and plumbing.

Apprenticeship pathway courses – commonly known as pre-apprenticeships – give students the opportunity to experience hands-on training. This helps students to find out what it’s like to work in a particular industry before going on to an apprenticeship or further training.

A recent NCVER report shows that pre-apprenticeship programs significantly boost the chances of a student successfully completing an apprenticeship.

Students who complete a pre-apprenticeship and then go on to do an apprenticeship in the same field as their training are 16 per cent more likely to finish their apprenticeship than apprentices who did not enroll in a pre-apprenticeship program.

During a pre-apprenticeship, students gain essential industry knowledge along with basic on-the-job skills. Students can also access support to improve their literacy and numeracy skills so they can get the most out of their training and are prepared to enter the workforce.

Apprentices can also access free support through the Apprenticeships Victoria Helpdesk, part of a $9m package to improve support, safety and fairness for apprentices and trainees.

To find out more about apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, visit apprenticeships.vic.gov.au