The Industry Collaboration Award recognises an exemplary skills development collaboration between an employer or industry body and, at least, one other organisation.
A collaborative program between Clennett’s Mitre 10, youth support charity Whitelion and registered training organisation MEGT is meeting the hardware company’s staffing needs by training and employing disadvantaged youth in the Tasmanian communities of Mornington, Kingston and Huonville.
The program is part of Clennett’s Mitre 10’s staff succession strategy to build capable younger workers who can step up as staff retire. It also continues the company’s longstanding commitment to local communities.
Michelle Howells, Clennett’s Mitre 10 HR Manager, is thrilled that the program received the 2015 Industry Collaboration Award.
“It’s marvellous for the program partners but it’s also recognition for the trainees who have often overcome personal obstacles to succeed. They share in this success.”
In the program, youth are placed in traineeships in Certificate II in Retail against positions identified by Clennett’s Mitre 10. During their training they receive specialist support from Whitelion and MEGT, which Michelle says is critical to the program.
“The program is successful because our three organisations share the same values and have a strong relationship,” says Michelle. “Out of seven trainees so far, six are still with us and one is now a department supervisor.”
Michelle says that the Australian Training Awards are essential to getting the message out there.
“Ours is a model that can be used in many industries. It’s simply an innovative way to manage a business need along with a corporate social responsibility.”
Additionally, Michelle says that the company’s trainees have been inspired by the Awards to compete for themselves in 2016.
All staff, along with the trainees, are proud of the program. Nick, 22, now a permanent employee, sums it up: “This traineeship has made a huge difference in my life. I have two kids and it’s given me security to provide for my family. I also feel proud of what I’ve learnt so far and my confidence has grown so much. I would also like to be a good role model for other young kids in the same situation.”