Students from Brisbane South West District schools visited CVIAQ member company premises on Tuesday 28th August. Schools involved were Corinda State High School, Glenala State High School, Centenary State High School, Forest Lake State High School, Stretton College and Nyanda State High School. Over ninety students from Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 were involved.

The tour, the third in as many years to be jointly organised by CVIAQ and the Brisbane South West Work Education Program Incorporated, was undertaken to showcase the various career paths available in the industry. Students visited the Brisbane Isuzu dealership at Archerfield and the O’Phee Trailers manufacturing plant at Rocklea.

Students toured through both premises witnessing first hand the types of careers available in the heavy commercial vehicle sector. The visitors were able to see activities involving many of the trades in the manufacturing and repair sectors as well as spare parts and administrative operations in both a workshop and office situation.

Students showed great interest with a number confirming on the day their intention to apply for employment with one of either host companies. Like previous tours, the 2007 event continues to enhance the likelihood that students will look to the heavy vehicle industry for apprenticeships, traineeships and work experience as they prepare to leave school and enter the workforce.

Many well deserved thanks to Mr Pete Kenny from Brisbane Isuzu and Mrs Sharon O’Phee from O’Phee Trailers for giving up their valuable time and organising staff to host the students and conduct the tours. A special thank you is directed to Brisbane Isuzu for providing lunch to all participants on the day.

The school visits are a part of the ongoing CVIAQ commitment to address the present skills shortages being experienced by members.