South Australia’s defence industry workforce is set for a boost, with BAE Systems Australia and ASC signing on as key employment partners for the soon-to-open Heights Technical College.

Backed by the South Australian Government, this new partnership is set to create more pathways for young South Australians to enter the defence industry, particularly in critical programs like the Hunter class frigates and AUKUS conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. _­

The announcement comes as four students from Findon Technical College officially begin their apprenticeship with BAE Systems Australia’s Osborne Naval Shipyard.  With BAE a key employer partner at Findon Technical College, the apprentices add to the state’s next generation of shipbuilders.

Defence manufacturing is a massive growth industry for the state, offering young people lifelong, rewarding careers. Pathways available through the Technical Colleges will see today’s students beginning their careers at Osborne Naval Shipyard and one day building the most complex machinery anywhere on earth.

With BAE Systems Australia ramping up recruitment for the Hunter frigate program and seeking 600 new roles, Angela Wiggins, Chief People Officer at BAE Systems Australia, stated that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a highly skilled workforce.

“This is a world-class example of industry, the education sector, and government working together for the benefit of Australia,” she said.

“The Hunter program is building some of the world’s most advanced anti-submarine warfare frigates which is establishing the foundation for continuous naval shipbuilding for the nation and delivering thousands of highly skilled jobs into our economy.”

The Heights Technical College joins four others—Findon, Port Augusta, Tonsley and Mount Gambier — all forming part of a $208.8 million State Government investment aimed at enabling students to complete year 12 alongside the first year of their apprenticeship. All campuses are set to be operational by 2026.

ASC is also a key employer partner at the Tonsley Technical College, which recently added REDARC to its network of industry partners.

The growing partnership between government, education and defence industry demonstrates the benefits of working together for South Australia and the nation.

Read the media release.

—

Photo: The first cohort of Year 12 Findon Technical College students starting their apprenticeship while still at school.