New pathway paved for aspiring tradies

Career seekers interested in being part of Queensland’s construction revival are being offered a new pathway into the industry through the Trade Start program.

The initiative is open to anyone of any age who has left school and provides the choice of two different streams; Trade Start General Construction and Trade Start Civil Construction.

In both programs participants will gain at least 160 hours of structured workplace learning with an employer, allowing them to experience day to day life working in the construction industry.

Throughout this time they will have access to support from CSQ, who can provide information and advice to help people find their feet in the industry.

After successfully completing their training, participants will receive a Certificate I in Construction (Trade Start General Construction) or a Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation (Trade Start Civil Construction).

These pre-trade qualifications provide the ideal preparation for starting an apprenticeship.

Through Trade Start, participants also receive ‘Green Skills’ training and learn about sustainable practices in their industry, increasing their skills.

To assist the success of the Trade Start program, CSQ also offers financial support to employers who employ a student from Trade Start into an apprenticeship or traineeship.

CSQ CEO Brett Schimming said Trade Start was a significant step forward for Queensland’s construction industry.

“Construction is one of Queensland’s biggest industries and can offer you a rewarding career with a great lifestyle and the opportunity to one day be self-employed.

“It’s never too late to be part of the industry and the introduction of Trade Start has made it easier than ever before to get started in a Trade.
 “CSQ’s team works alongside career seekers to help them build a successful future in construction,” he said.
The CSQ team can provide information about different career options and advise on the steps people need to take to begin their Trade. 

For more information please visit www.csq.org.au or contact 1800 798 488 to find out how CSQ can help people kick start their career in construction.