Apprenticeship program developing 'next-gen' technicians

As is the case around the world, Australia is suffering a chronic lack of skilled trade specialists. The specialised field of the compressed air industry is definitely no different, according to Mark Ferguson, CEO at Kaishan Australia.

“We identified this as a problem within our industry with the need to grow our fleet of qualified mobile compressed air technicians to service our expanding business operations,” said Ferguson.“We realise the importance of developing our service and support workforce with the capability to keep abreast of current and emerging technologies in the compressed air industry. We can complain about the ongoing skills shortage or we can become part of the solution. We chose the latter.”

After implementing a program that will see at least one new apprentice graduate every year, Kaishan Australia is now realising the benefits of its first homegrown specialist technician. ‘Cooper’ is now fully trained through an extensive trade school course and first-hand experience in the field with practical applications under senior company technicians. Now entrusted with his own, brand new ‘mobile workshop’, Cooper is fully operational with the full confidence of the company and customers.

Shane O’Brien, National Operations Manager at Kaishan Australia, stated: “Cooper demonstrates a thorough knowledge of a variety of different compressed air equipment and technology that is already appreciated by his peers and our customers alike. He is now fully capable of assessing and rectifying a myriad of different problems typically found in any compressed air system and has already become an invaluable asset to the company. Cooper will be provided with every support and encouragement to continue and grow within his chosen career at Kaishan.”

The second beneficiary of the Kaishan Australia apprenticeship commitment, ‘Damon’ (pictured), has already completed his first year of mechanical engineering at TAFE, combined with wide industry experience assisting established Kaishan technicians. Damon is now well on his way to mastering a unique set of skills both in a technical engineering and customer service aspect that will entrench him as a vital part of the company’s future.

“Our challenge will be to ensure that these vital skills are retained in the company through creating an attractive work environment, competitive remuneration packages and new opportunities that reward their skills and commitment,” said Ferguson.

Kaishan Australia welcomes enquiries from any aspiring young people with a desire and aptitude in mechanical and electrical skill sets to enquire through the company’s apprenticeship program.