World-renowned Tasmanian ferry builder Incat plans to double its workforce as part of an ambitious growth strategy focused on training the next generation of tradespeople.
The Hobart-based company currently has 70 apprentices among its 500 employees – a vital 14% of its workforce – as it builds cutting-edge aluminium ferries for export around the world.
“Our youth job strategy is all about making sure that young Tasmanians can thrive and take up the opportunities of our strong economy,” Minister Felix Ellis said, launching the ‘Demonstration Project’.
“By making sure that young people understand the opportunities that exist in their community we’re able to help build them up into the incredible workforce of the future.”
The ‘Demonstration Project’ brings together industry, schools, training providers, jobs hubs and community organisations to help students move from the classroom into careers.
Incat chief executive Stephen Casey said the company’s growth relies on building talent from the ground up.
“At Incat we’ve always invested in apprentices knowing that they contribute to the Tasmanian and Australian economy,” he said.
“And they may go and work on another project, but typically we’ll see them come back because of the innovation and the amazing opportunities we have here at Incat.”
Apprentices at Incat work across traditional trades such as welding and fabrication, as well as technical fields like electrical work, instrumentation and mechanical engineering.
First-year mechanical engineering apprentice Jono Logan is helping install critical safety systems aboard the ferries.
“It’s offered a great growth in not only my personal career but at home with the confidence around tools and engineering,” he said.
Electrical apprentice Lottie Mansfield has been wiring lighting systems in passenger areas.
“It’s been a really satisfying job to be able to work on and look back and say that I was part of that and I did that,” she said.
Incat’s apprenticeship programs run for three to four years, with most graduates staying on in full-time roles once they finish.
