Metalworkers from a Brisbane-based engineering company have gained their National Certificate III in Fabrication through a unique partnership between the AMWU and industry.  

The training program, the responsibility of the AMWU’s Registered Training Organisation MISTAS together with employer Siganto & Stacey and training provider SkillsTech, was created to give workers the chance to gain national accreditation.

Through a mixture of RPL (Recognition of prior learning), onsite and TAFE training, the program recognizes the skills workers use on the job.

Ricky Luke, the National Coordinator of MISTAS (Manufacturing Industry Skills Training and Assessment Services) said the workers at Siganto & Stacey had shown tremendous commitment and dedication to gain their National Certificate III in Fabrication. 

“For over two years these guys have balanced work, family and study commitments. They had to front up after an eight-hour day and attend TAFE classes, two nights a week.

“It’s an outstanding result for them. They can now look forward to better pay and the opportunity to be promoted internally within the company.”

Program graduate and AMWU member, James Hatcliffe, has gone from working as a trades assistant to tradesperson to now being appointed junior site manager since graduating in May.

“I started in the industry four and half years ago and I’ve always wanted to progress. I knew the company had offered the program to employees in the past and it was great to be able to have the opportunity again.”

He said Siganto & Stacey had been supportive from the start.

“Not only do they want the company to go forward as a group but they want us as individuals to progress and grow. I’d absolutely recommend the program to other people.”

In July Mr Hatcliffe will move to Darwin to work with Siganto & Stacey on the Inpex gas project.

“I have a one year old and another on the way. It’s important to know I’ll have a bit more financial stability. I’ve taken away a lot of personal satisfaction from gaining the Certificate.” 

AMWU Brisbane organiser Alan Lacey also praised the company for supporting the program and offering workers the opportunity to progress.

“Siganto is a great supporter and leader of the industry. They recognize the value of training their workers and helping them achieve this Certificate III. It’s a shame we do not have the same commitment from other employers although I hope this program will show others what can be achieved.”

Will Siganto, CEO of Siganto & Stacey, told the graduation ceremony in late May that he was grateful then AMWU Queensland Secretary Andrew Dettmer assisted in getting the program off the ground over six years ago and how proud he was that the program was continuing with new employees taking part. 

To find out about training and skills assessment opportunities contact Manufacturing Industry Skills Training and Assessment Services (MISTAS) on 07 3238 5500.