Automotive sector
Recently I was at a careers expo – it was National Careers Week after all, and VACC runs an apprenticeship scheme.
This wasn’t just your average event, the focus was purely on the trades and tech disciplines. Two booming, cutting-edge industries.
Specifically, the event aimed to give young women an opportunity to connect with employers and key industry organisations. Attendees experienced hands-on activities and learnt about well-paid careers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
It wasn’t just full steam ahead at VACC’s Accelerating Women into Automotive (AWIA) section, every stall was buzzing. And why not? It’s an exciting time in automotive and, clearly, I’m not the only one who thinks so.
We are on the verge of an electric revolution and automotive is moving with the times. And with change comes great opportunity for all Australians.
Now, I am not saying automotive is for everyone. That is why places like VACC develop programs like AWIA – so curious students can give it a test drive first.
AWIA is a venture from VACC, the Victorian Department of Education and Training, and Women in Automotive, that supports young females interested in the industry. Over four weeks, participants receive coaching at a registered training provider and experience interesting and varied work placements. If they decide it’s a good fit, facilitators help them secure an apprenticeship and provide ongoing support.
Automotive can really take people places. I started out as a body making apprentice before switching gears to eventually become an industry body CEO.
So, if automotive piques your interest – come and give it a try.
Words: VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym.
Share your thoughts! E: ceo@vacc.com.au. As featured in the Herald Sun Friday 3 June 2022.