A Queensland “gateway” program is opening doors for Mackay students who are swapping books for brake lights.
The Gateway to Industry Schools Program (GISP) connects students to industries including manufacturing, health, building and constructions, mining, energy, screen and media.
Visiting Pioneer State High School, Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer announced $7.65 million in funding to continue the successful program as part of the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.
“This is a program that’s given thousands of Queensland students the opportunity to explore their career choices while still at school and learn from leaders in their chosen field,” Farmer said.
“It is tried and true because we know if you get the right training, you’re more likely to get the right job.”
The program started 15 years ago with 42 schools and has now been rolled out to 270 schools across the state
Ten organisations will share in the $7.65 million investment, including Aviation Australia, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy.
Queensland Resources Council chief executive Ian Macfarlane applauded the State Government for continuing the program.
“The resources sector is facing major skills shortages in critical areas such as engineering and trades and I know other industries are facing the same problem,” Macfarlane said.
“GISP is a very successful program that helps open students’ eyes to many careers they might not have considered, especially female and Indigenous students.”
Subscribe to Education Matters for the latest education news.
