MEDIA RELEASE
Abigroup addresses skills shortages through staff training
11 June 2008
Today’s construction environment is vastly different to when many site
workers originally entered the workforce and as a result, skills
requirements have changed. Abigroup is taking the lead in addressing
workplace shortages by providing staff with the chance to further develop
and strengthen their skills and experiences with formal training.
On 4 June, 32 Abigroup foremen and leading hands working on the
Bonville Upgrade on NSW’s North Coast graduated from a TAFE NSW
computer course. As a result, the graduates’ enhanced computer literacy
has given them the ability to not only develop in their existing roles but
also to tap into future training with the Tier 1 company.
The participants received a Statement of Attainment in the nationally
recognised competencies of Operate a personal computer and Send and
retrieve information using web browsers and email. The participants
undertook the training as part of the Workplace English Language and
Literacy (WELL) Programme, which is funded by the Department of
Education, Science and Training.
“By recognising a skills gap in Abigroup’s workforce, we have taken this as
an opportunity to train valued employers and arm them with the
necessary skills to potentially take on greater responsibility,” said
Abigroup Learning and Development Manager Michael Hall.
Those that completed the certificate will now be able to participate in
Abigroup’s professional development program to further extend their
skills. Due to the success of the WELL program at Bonville, further courses
will also shortly commence on Abigroup’s Coolac, K2B and Hume Highway
Southern Alliance sites.
Six indigenous trainees from the Bonville Upgrade also successfully
completed the Civil Construction Certificate II course. “The ability that the
trainees displayed to learn and develop into competent construction
workers is exemplified by the fact they have become an integral part of
their respective work crews. The trainees have cemented themselves a
career in the construction industry,” said Abigroup’s Regional OH&S Co-
ordinator Dan Guthrie.
Abigroup Contractors is one of Australia’s leading engineering and
building companies. Works are undertaken in areas including
roads, bridges, dams, rail, water, telecommunications and mining
infrastructure. Abigroup is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bilfinger
Berger AG, one of the world’s top ten construction companies.
[Ends – 313 words]
Further information:
Corporate Communications
Abigroup Limited
Ph (02) 9499 0999
Fax (02) 9499 3822
Email: abimail@abigroup.com.au
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