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Take advantage of industry growth with Free Trades Training
Companies can prepare for the boom in infrastructure projects by skilling up their workers with Free Trades Training
Infrastructure is a key component of the government’s economic recovery plan in the wake of COVID-19. With investment of more than $5 billion, the fast-tracked approval of more than 150 “shovel-ready” projects, and the creation of 20,000 new jobs across New Zealand, the industry is seeing fast-paced expansion.
To help plug the skills gap this growth is creating, the government has pledged $320 million towards vocational training. The Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (also known as Free Trades Training) makes apprenticeships and most on-job qualifications provided by Connexis, the infrastructure industry training organisation, free to employers and employees.
Free Trades Training is attracting new people into infrastructure and supporting current trainees to complete their qualifications. It also aims to bridge the gender divide by boosting the numbers of women, who have been disproportionately impacted by the economic effects of COVID-19.
A skilled workforce has benefits for employers too, lending a competitive edge when tendering for government contracts; increasing productivity; and ensuring quality, and health and safety standards are met. Nurturing talent and providing learning opportunities builds a loyal crew.
Visit www.connexis.org.nz/freetradestraining for more information on Free Trades Training and other funding available for Infrastructure apprenticeships and training.
Connexis
