Strategy helps students find a career in manufacturing

The Manufacturing and Export Minister, Andre Haermeyer, today launched anew program designed to promote manufacturing careers among secondaryschool students.

The program, Make Something of Yourself, is based on a highly successfulpilot used in 30 schools this year. The program will be broadened toinclude 100 schools across Victoria in 2006.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Haermeyer said the pilot had highlighted themany opportunities offered by the manufacturing industry to youngjob-seekers.

Back row (left to right) - Michael Jones, Lisa Heslop, Freya Lucas, SarahBrowne
Front row (left to right) - Glen Vandervelde, Minister Haermeyer, DenverAlvis (Managing Director, Metaltec), Andrew Sansome, Hamid Diab


"Manufacturing today is among the most creative, sophisticated, andtechnologically-advanced industries in the world," Mr Haermeyer said.

"Many young people have an outdated perception about manufacturing anddon?t realise the kind of exciting career opportunities afforded by thissector."

"This program is a practical way to give young people the chance to seewhat today?s manufacturing is all about, and find an exciting career optionalong the way."

The new program is aimed at Year 9 and 10 students and is structured aroundfour key elements:

A resource kit which contains a booklet, DVD and other supportingmaterial on the many career opportunities offered by manufacturing

Website support at www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au, which gives studentseasy access to information on career pathways and courses in manufacturing

Site visits, which give Year 9 and 10 students the chance to visitlocal manufacturing companies and see the industry at work and

School visits by ?Young Industry Ambassadors?, a group of youngpeople currently enjoying rewarding careers in the sector.

Mr Haermeyer said it was important manufacturers supported the new programto ensure its success.

"e need to show students that manufacturing is a dynamic industry whichoffers well-paid careers in everything from design, engineering and projectmanagement to information technology, marketing and finance," he said.

"The industry?s involvement is crucial in this process. Manufacturers canoffer their sites for visits by schools groups or nominate members of theirstaff to go out to schools and talk about their careers."

"We want to encourage more bright young people to consider this vitalindustry and continue to have a smart, flexible and innovative workforce."

"Make Something of Yourself is a timely initiative which brings schools,industry and government together in partnership to help ensure a strongfuture for both manufacturing and for Victoria."