LOCAL JOBS BOOSTED WITH NEW APPRENTICESHIPS

MEDIA RELEASE

Leading North Queensland mechanical and electrical services contractor PEAK ARE is investing in the future of the region, set to put six new apprentices on in total in 2020.

PEAK ARE Electrical Department Manager Allan Petersen said the family owned and operated local business is committed to supporting a skilled workforce to ensure a sustainable industry in the years ahead.

“PEAK ARE has been extremely lucky throughout COVID-19 that we’ve been able to maintain a steady pipeline of work and continue with our growth plans which include employing young local apprentices,” Mr Petersen said.

“We do a huge variety of work and it’s good that we can bring young people through and train them how we see is the best fit for the company and the industry more broadly.

“At the end of this year, we’ll have three apprentices who’ll complete their time and move up into tradespeople roles within the company. It’s important to the future of the business to have those people who are stepping up supported by new apprentices coming online.”

25-year old Jared Clemments has just started with PEAK ARE as a first-year refrigeration mechanic and says the role is a dream come true.

“I'm getting to work on some of the best projects in Townsville and learning from some really knowledgeable people which is awesome,” Mr Clemments said.

“I’m from Charters Towers originally and at a time when so many people are losing their jobs, it’s really great to have long-term employment prospects.”

Nathan Barrett has been with PEAK ARE for four years and is in the final months of his apprenticeship after recently completing his Capstone exam.

“Doing a trade has been awesome, I’ve learnt a variety of different skills; everyday skills, people skills, learning to working with other trades, public presence, obviously all the hands-on skills that are required within the trade,” Mr Barrett said.

“Some of my favourite projects have been the Willow's upgrade, the new Australian Taxation Office building, Mater Hospital and Reef HQ. I’ve been lucky to have worked on a fair few major projects around Townsville.

“Every day is different and we’re always learning new skills. It's really good that I can learn and then pass on that knowledge to other people.”

PEAK ARE currently employs 50 staff locally.

[ENDS]