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The prime has announced plans to expand its local host businesses program, aimed at equipping the local workforce with the skills to support its Future Submarines program.
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Naval Group Australia has launched a new, expanded phase of its local host businesses program, which links the prime to local companies willing to provide on-the-job training to workers in key trades required to support the Attack Class submarines project.
The program, which currently delivers on-the-job training to 20 apprentices across South Australia, will now include trainees, expected to play a critical role in the design of the Future Submarines.
Naval Group Australia partly funds the worker’s wages during the placement, and provides graduates with pathways to careers with the submarine program.
Naval Group Australia traineeship and apprenticeship coordinator Toni Warner said it was the right time to expand the program ahead of the hull qualification section construction, commencing in 2023.
The program will be offered via the Diploma of Engineering (Technical), jointly developed by Naval Group Australia and TAFE SA.
The course trains participants in mechanical engineering and ship design principles — including submarine-specific knowledge and drafting skills and 3D computer-aided design.
“When we start the construction of these advanced submarines in just a few years’ time, we will need people with special skills to help us deliver the unique vessels Australia needs. That means we need to start, right now, on developing the submarine workers of the future,” she said.
“A great place for them to get the on-the-job experience they need is in local businesses, while we prepare the new and modern shipyard at Osborne that will be their workshop for the future.
“The Attack Class submarine project is already creating hundreds of jobs in South Australia. We want people from all backgrounds and experiences to join us on this important mission.”
Host businesses involved in the program include Adelaide-based steel fabrication business Gant & Sons, which currently hosts three Naval Group Australia apprentices.
Gant & Sons owner Wayne Gant noted the benefits of having wages co-founded by Naval Group, stating they have helped the business create jobs and increase output.
“It’s been a great experience for us to have new people come into the business, and know there’s assistance and support to help them through the period of learning new skills,” he said.
“I’d encourage other businesses to sign up as soon as they can. You can get young and ambitious workers into your workshop or business, and Naval Group Australia will co-fund their wages.”
[Related: Naval Group appoints new head of Future Submarines program]
