Former pastry chef Andre Basic has successfully completed a change of career path, gaining employment as an Electrical Apprentice with Marine Technicians Australia (MTA).
Andre, who was one of the first trainees to complete a 12-month traineeship with the Defence Industry Pathways Program, is currently working onboard HMAS Pilbara (Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessel) having been with MTA for over a year.
Over the course of his traineeship, Andre completed two rotations with MTA and knew that was the career path and industry he wanted to follow.
“MTA is a great company to work with, from the management team to the tradesmen, and I want to stay there for as long as possible,” Andre said.
“The work involved on the Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) project will continue long after my apprenticeship finishes – the continued building, modifications and being part of the sustainment team on the OPV and the ANZAC class frigates will keep me busy into the future.”
Part of the attraction to Andre’s role at MTA is the exposure to electrical work, which he describes as “amazing.”
“The amount of electrical exposure is going to be amazing,” he said.
“Everything I do daily I am learning something new – with the learning process comes knowledge and experience and how to improve in the challenges faced daily that are involved in the ship-building process.
“It is so rewarding to see your suggestions become part of the solution.”
MTA has supported the Defence Industry Pathways Program since its inception, and MTA National Commercial Manager, Rohan Green, explains that they are beneficiaries along with the participants.
“It’s always been a challenge to source people into the defence industry – it isn’t commonly known as a career of choice,” Rohan explained.
“The program has allowed people to be rotated throughout the industry, it offers a great opportunity to trial for both parties.”
Andre highlighted the opportunity the traineeship provided him, with the opportunity to experience and build his skillset across industry.
“The traineeship has given me a chance to transition into a new career – through the traineeship, I was given the time and exposure to increase my skillset which helped get me ready for the new opportunities for employment once the program was finished,” Andre said.
Rohan added: “As part of his traineeship, MTA encouraged Andre to gain experience across industry.”
“Andre completed two rotations with MTA which allowed him to gain a strong understanding of his role requirements and what was entailed.
“An integral part of the program is the mentoring support on offer with Programmed.”
“The program’s design encourages trainees to try out different roles and different companies – the benefit is exposure across the whole industry, not just one small part of it.
“The program is creating jobs, putting people in jobs, and allowing them to get the skills and experiences.”
While the traineeship provides the framework for success, Rohan stressed that a successful outcome is up to the hard work of the individual.
“Andre had to work really hard,” Rohan said.
“His effort, commitment and attitude ticked every box – he has set very high standards for apprentices!”
“Not only did he get there off his own efforts, but he has shown continued commitment, wants to get involved and has a hunger for knowledge – we can’t fault him.”
Andre echoed Rohan’s sentiments, highlighting that he was grateful for the assistance throughout the program but its ultimately it is up to the participant to make the most of the resources available.
“Being able to meet defence industry stakeholders, and show employers that I was keen, interested and have the skills that they require, was a big help,” he said.
“Getting a foot in the door is half the battle and having someone to give you a chance.”
“The rest is up to you.”
