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If you’re ready to take the first step on your career journey, an apprenticeship is a great way to gain hands-on experience while earning a qualification at the same time – laying the foundations for a rewarding and satisfying career.
Choosing the right apprenticeship can be daunting but should also be exciting. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the right apprenticeship, covering everything from the different types available to practical steps you can take to find the best fit for your skills and interests.
AGA offers a number of apprenticeships and traineeships, so after you read through this guide, take a look at our current vacancies or find out more about our training programs.
An apprenticeship is a program that offers on-the-job training, where you earn a wage doing practical work while undertaking training throughout your employment. Unlike traditional academic pathways, which aren’t the right fit for everyone, apprenticeships focus on practical skills and can lead directly to a job on completion.
An apprenticeship typically takes three to four years to complete and involves learning a skilled trade such as automotive, plumbing, construction, carpentry, electrical, and more. You can choose to complete it part-time and even start an apprenticeship while you’re at school through AGA’s Vocational Education and Training Delivered to School Students (VDSS) pathways.
To complete an apprenticeship, you will be employed and working with an employer—this means you get to earn while you learn. Once you’ve completed the requirements, you’ll be a qualified tradesperson in the industry of your choice.
A great place to start in choosing the right apprenticeship for you is to consider your interests, strengths, and career goals. Here are five tips to help you choose the right apprenticeship:
1. Identify Your Interests
Start by thinking about your personal strengths, passions, and hobbies. Do you enjoy hands-on work? Are you great at problem-solving? Do you love to create something from scratch, or are you a natural fixer? Do you work best in a team or on your own?
You may want to explore different industries. Attending a Trade Taster program or short course with AGA is a great way to understand different pathways. These interactive programs and courses offer practical experience and expert training, introducing you to trades like plumbing, electrical, automotive, and building and construction.
You’ll learn about working in the industry and pathways to becoming an apprentice or trainee, as well as find out where your skills lie and what you enjoy most. This will set you up for a career that not only pays a wage but also provides job satisfaction, contributes to your wellbeing, and allows you to meet like-minded people.
2. Research Potential Fields
As you think about your personal interests, begin exploring different industries and apprenticeship programs. Research the daily tasks and skills needed for each trade. Talking to people who work in the industry can help you understand future career prospects in each field.
AGA’s Pre-apprenticeships are an excellent place to start for anyone interested in pursuing an apprenticeship. These Certificate II qualifications are designed to prepare you for entry into specific trade industries. Foundational programs like these cover essential topics, including theory, safety regulations, and practical skills training, setting you up for success.
3. Evaluate Training Providers
Not all apprenticeships are created equal. The quality of training can vary depending on the provider, so it’s important to choose reputable organisations offering comprehensive support.
For example, with over 40 years of experience in apprentice support and training, AGA has a large network of potential employers and businesses to assist you on your career journey. AGA also provides access to state-of-the-art training facilities tailored to specific trade qualifications, ensuring you receive the best training possible.
4. Consider Job Market Trends
It’s wise to choose a trade in a field where skilled workers are in demand. For instance, Australia is currently facing a skills shortage, particularly in industries like plumbing and electrical trades.
Starting a plumbing apprenticeship or electrical apprenticeship with AGA can lead to excellent job opportunities and long-term career stability. Similarly, apprenticeships in emerging industries like renewable energy or clean energy can provide pathways to future-proof careers.
5. Talk to Current Apprentices and Providers
Speaking to current or past apprentices can be incredibly insightful. They can share their experiences, challenges, and successes, giving you a realistic understanding of what to expect.
AGA provides a supportive environment, including mentorship and tailored resources. For example, our programs for women in trades focus on empowering women by offering experienced trainers, guidance, and industry connections. Women currently comprise over 12% of our building and construction apprentices, which is four times the industry average.
AGA specialises in delivering trade qualifications to apprentices and trainees. Our experienced team works closely with you and your employer to ensure the best outcomes during your apprenticeship journey.
By identifying your interests, researching opportunities, and choosing reputable training providers, you can set yourself up for a successful and rewarding career.
Take the first step and contact AGA to explore apprenticeship programs in your area or view current vacancies. Remember, the right apprenticeship can be the start of an exciting and fulfilling career.
