As school leavers weigh their next move, champions of Hunter industry are encouraging gap
year students to consider a future in manufacturing – an industry at the heart of Australia’s
energy transition, defence capability and economic growth.

Hunter Manufacturing Awards Chair Jacqui Daley says the Hunter is manufacturing heartland
and the industry continues to go from strength to strength making it a fantastic career option.

“As the Australian Government rolls out its A Future Made in Australia strategy, manufacturing is
experiencing a major resurgence. From renewable energy to advanced defence tech, the
demand for skilled workers has never been higher.

“Harnessing solar, wind and hydro power requires infrastructure – and that starts with parts
manufactured right here in the Hunter,” Daley said.

“Just last month we saw our HMA start-up of the year, Allegro Energy, be granted a US patent
for its micro-emulsion electrolyte technology and this is just one of many inspiring local
businesses succeeding on a global stage.”

“What is clear is that innovation is just as likely to come from a component maker in Cardiff as it
is from a capital city think tank.”

With more than 250 apprentices and trainees currently placed across 50 organisations and
three States – and 75% of those roles in manufacturing – one Hunter-based training group is
offering young people a chance to kickstart their careers through hands-on training and
real-world skills.

Hunter Manufacturing Awards board member and Chief Operating Officer of Hunter Career
Connections Nick Couper says students taking a gap year should explore the opportunities on
offer in the local manufacturing sector.

“For many school leavers, early acceptance into university has meant a real narrowing of focus
to the different learning and career pathways that are available. We want to encourage young
people to explore the other opportunities available via apprenticeships and traineeships.”

While formal training for trades often begins in January or February, Mr Couper said students
don’t have to wait until next year to get started.

“Companies are recruiting all year round. If your gap year feels like a holding pattern, this is a
great way to jump into something with purpose – and get paid to learn.”

Local jobs are powering national priorities in manufacturing, new energy and defence related
industries with in-demand roles across engineering, aviation, electrotechnology and electronics
as well as process manufacturing, business traineeships, supply chain and logistics and
maritime.

Real skills, real jobs

Mr Couper said it’s not uncommon for university graduates to circle back to apprenticeships
after struggling to find a clear career path.

“It’s not about choosing between university or a trade – it’s about understanding all your options.
For many, the workplace can be the best classroom.”