A shortfall of skilled workers in the construction industry is prompting mature age workers to take up apprenticeships.
32-year-old South Maclean electrician Drydan Bingham proved you’re never too old to learn and was recently awarded a $5000 merit scholarship from TAFE Queensland to study a trade in air conditioning and refrigeration.
Once complete, this will be Mr Bingham’s second trade – the first is in sheet metal and fabrication – and he hopes to inspire others to take advantage of opportunities to upskill or switch careers, regardless of age.
His work as a tradesman spans a range of projects, including school builds in Everleigh and Park Ridge, and high-rise apartments near Wynnum.
“Merit scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved outstanding academic merit or demonstrate strong work performance,” Mr Bingham said.
“It’s a huge bonus that TAFE has been super supportive, alongside my employer, who has encouraged me from the start.”
Reflecting on his career journey, Mr Bingham shared how his passion for air conditioning evolved from working in ductwork fabrication to service roles during the pandemic and now to installation.
“I have learnt every aspect of air conditioning and have pretty well gone full circle now, and I love it,” he said.
Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) last year estimated that Queensland’s construction industry was about 18000 workers short of what it need and Mr Bingham believes there are a wealth of opportunities available for mature-age apprentices and career changers.
“The government is throwing real incentives into TAFE and skills tech to address the skill shortages across trades like painting, electrical, and plumbing,” he said.
TAFE Queensland is playing a crucial role in addressing these gaps, with over 26,000 apprentices currently in training across the state.
According to TAFE Queensland SkillsTech General Manager Stephen Gates, the student body spans diverse ages and backgrounds.
“Our in-training apprentices range from school-based apprentices who are 15 years old to mature-aged apprentices in their 60s,” Mr Gates said.
“We provide tailored support services to ensure all our students succeed in their chosen fields.”
Mr Gates added that TAFE scholarships can make a vital difference.
“The financial assistance enhances learning experiences and can be the difference between a student reaching their potential or not,” he said.
Mr Bingham encourages others to take the plunge into upskilling or pursuing a second trade, dismissing concerns about age or financial constraints.
“There’s never been a better time,” he said.
“The opportunities are there, and we can always have more hands on deck.”
