The Apprentice Employment Network NSW & ACT (AEN NSW ACT) 2022 Skills Conference took place on Wednesday 15th June in Sydney, NSW. This event brings together industry experts and thought leaders for a day full of discussion and knowledge sharing. As a proud sponsor, AATIS was invited to take part in a panel discussion on the day.
AEN NSW ACT is the peak body representing a network of independent, not-for-profit Registered Group Training Organisations (GTOs) in NSW and ACT. They form part of a national network of GTOs, alongside Apprentice Employment Network QLD & NT, Apprentice Employment Network SA, Apprentice Employment Network Tasmania, Apprentice Employment Network Victoria and Apprentice Employment Network WA.
Held annually, the AEN NSW ACT Skills Conference offers those within the industry an opportunity to come together, exchange ideas and, share best practices.
Among the topics discussed at this year’s conference were the increased focus on women in trades, the importance of partnerships with industry for apprenticeships and traineeships, and TAFE services meeting the evolving needs of the industry.
The Changing Face of Careers Advice
AATIS Director Dr Peta Skujins facilitated a panel discussion on the changing face of careers advice. Peta was joined by President of Career Advisers Association NSW & ACT, Jenine Smith, and Director of Industry & Community Relations at NSW Department of Education, Chris Davis.
The discussion touched on several topics including the role that of GTOs in supporting careers advice and the ongoing challenges facing the Australian Apprenticeships industry, such as quality candidates and the changing needs of students and young people.
Jenine’s extensive experience working directly with career advisers was key to understanding the perspectives of those offering advice to students and young people, while Chris was able to offer insights into the development of Careers NSW as a career guidance resource. This made for a well-balanced and informative session.
The GTO Advantage
A key outcome of the Conference was the release of a specially commissioned value proposition titled ‘The GTO Advantage’. AEN NSW ACT, in partnership with Social Outcomes, produced the evidence-based value proposition to highlight the important role GTOs play in advancing a skilled workforce across Australia.
The GTO Advantage combines existing research and data with extensive stakeholder consultation and interviews to form an analysis of the impact GTOs have on both small to medium enterprises and large corporations.
Visit the AEN NSW ACT website () to view the comprehensive findings as well as a summarised version of the report.
As always, AATIS is proud to have been part of such an insightful and informative event!
