Mariststudentsgetafirsthandlookatconstructioncareers
News
Building the next generation of construction professionals starts with showing young people how cool construction is
Over recent months, Hutchies has been proud to strengthen our connection with Marist College Ashgrove through a series of student engagement opportunities designed to show genuine insight into life in construction.
The partnership has highlighted the many pathways available across the industry, from hands-on trades to professional and project-based careers.
Taking learning beyond the classroom
In August, we welcomed 22 Year 11 Certificate II in Construction Pathways students to our 50 Quay Street project in Brisbane. The visit gave the students a rare opportunity to experience a major residential high-rise project up close and learn about the planning, coordination and teamwork involved in delivering a building of this scale.
Led by Project Manager Anthony Stevens, the group toured all 30 levels of the development, gaining an appreciation for the wide range of careers required to bring a project to life. From carpentry and concreting to contract administration, project management and specialist trades, students saw firsthand that construction offers far more than one career path.
The 50 Quay Street team has also previously welcomed Year 11 Engineering students from Brisbane Boys Grammar School, giving another group of young people firsthand insight into the diverse careers involved in delivering a major construction project.
The site is not done providing valuable industry insight just yet, with another local school invited to tour the project next month.
Hearing from people on the job
The experience was made even more meaningful through the involvement of Marist Old Boys now building their careers with Hutchies.
Apprentice carpenter Bailey Caplick, last year's Hutchies Apprentice of the Year, shared his journey from school to the building industry.
Cadet Contract Administrator George Collyer spoke about the professional and administrative side of delivering major projects.
Their stories highlight the variety of pathways available into construction and a range of rewarding careers available for young people willing to get involved.
For students considering their next steps after school, hearing directly from former Marist students who have successfully transitioned into the industry provided valuable insight into what those pathways can look like in practice.
Continuing the conversation
The relationship didn't end at the site gate.
Later in the term, Hutchies representatives returned to Marist College Ashgrove to continue the conversation with students considering careers in construction. Speaking with Year 10 Construction Gateway students, the team shared their personal experiences, answered questions about apprenticeships and cadetships, and provided practical advice on entering the industry.
These discussions helped students better understand the many opportunities available within construction and the different pathways they can take after school.
Investing in the industry's future
Opportunities like these are vital for helping students understand the breadth of careers available in construction at a time when the industry continues to face skills shortages across Australia.
By connecting students directly with people working in the field, they gain a clearer picture of the opportunities available and the diverse careers that exist across the sector. Whether through an apprenticeship, cadetship or university pathway, construction offers opportunities for people with a wide range of interests and skills.
For Hutchies, investing time in the next generation is about more than filling future roles. It's about supporting young people to make informed decisions about their futures and helping ensure the long-term strength of an industry that plays such an important role in shaping our communities.
Strengthening industry connections
A big thank you to Marist College Ashgrove and Hutchies’ Pathways Engagement Lead Michelle Buckland for their ongoing support and collaboration.
We look forward to continuing to work together to inspire future builders, tradespeople and construction professionals.
