Engineering some interest

By Lia Bichel
MORE than a dozen careers teachers from south-east Victoria attended a tour in Hallam to see new technology and learn about opportunities available for young people in the engineering industry.
The Teachers Tour in Engineering at Apprenticeships Victoria was a precursor to an Australian school-based apprenticeship program in engineering that is in the process of being developed by the South-East Local Learning Employment Network in conjunction with Apprenticeships Victoria for students in 2009.
SELLEN’s community partnerships co-ordinator Alex Palazzolo said the event was a success.
“I think the day provided teachers with a lot of ideas and good insight into the way the engineering industry has developed over the years. I think some people have a negative perception of the industry,” he said.
“New technology has changed the industry for better, and the tour demonstrated that and provided teachers with knowledge of what’s available for young people.”
Mr Palazzolo said he hoped the tour created a career pathway for young people, and that it would help fill vacant engineering jobs.
“I hope it helps channel students to the industry,” he said. “There are so many great job opportunities.”
Secondary teachers wanting details on potential programs held by SELLEN can phone 9706 8711 or visit www.sellen.org.au