Liam Osborne, a former Airds High School student, couldn’t wait to enter the workforce.
In Year 11 he chose not one, not two, but three vocational courses – construction, metal and engineering and retail.
He also had a couple of casual jobs.
His careers advisor at school suggested he talk to a Career Development Specialist and put him in touch with Amber Hope from MWLP Linking Youth.
Amber helped him to perfect his resume and advised Liam on how to improve his interview techniques and skills.
That meant he was work ready.
The next step was to put him in touch with MG My Gateway, one of the largest employers of apprentices in NSW.
Liam met Field Officer, Steve Horn, who suggested he attend their Bulk Recruitment Day, where they referred him for further training.
Liam undertook a six week pre-apprenticeship course in Metal & Engineering, where he attended TAFE for three days a week and the other two days with an employer who, in this case, was Sevaan Group.
At the end of his course, Liam was chosen from five applicants to start a sheet metal work apprenticeship with Sevaan Group in January this year.
And they couldn’t be happier, says managing director Jim Tzakos, who is impressed with Liam.
“Liam is one of our best,’’ Mr Tzakos said.
“He is a thinker, which is rare these days. He comes up with ideas and is a problem solver.”
Liam is employed by MG My Gateway, who are a Group Training Company.
He is then hosted by Sevaan Group.
MG My Gateway provide support to Liam and Sevaan Group throughout the apprenticeship.
Ben Collins, production supervisor, is another fan of Liam: “He is a good kid. Liam is helpful, pro-active and a good worker,’’ he says.
“He works independently and has shown great interest in learning the laser cutting machine operation. He now runs it without help,” Mr Collins said.
Liam himself is also very happy with how things have turned out.
“Working at Sevaan Group is really good,’’ he says.
“I enjoy the variety and the steady income.
“The guys are great to work with.
“I was originally deciding between Construction and Metal & Engineering. My work placement in both these areas helped me decide and I know I’ve chosen the right path.
“I did my Work Placement with Sevaan Group back in 2014 so I knew some of the people and what to expect.”
Steve Horn (MG My Gateway) provides Liam with ongoing support.
Indeed Steve, Liam and Ben meet regularly to assess Liam’s progress.
“When Liam attended his pre-apprenticeship course he was always early, had a good attitude and was really keen to enter the workforce,’’ Mr Horn said.
“He was an ideal candidate to put forward to Sevaan Group.
“Seeing Liam grow in confidence and excel in his chosen career is very rewarding.’’
MWLP’s Amber Hope says “it’s encouraging to see schools like Airds High connecting with organisations like ours.
“Not all students want to take the university path,’’ says Ms Hope.
“We can offer students career and transition advice and guide them along their career pathway.
“We can even connect them to jobs.”
Just ask Liam Osborne.
For further information contact MWLP on 4625 1863 or visit their website here.
