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Weld of work opens up for Bremer TAFE grad
Julian Walsh gained his Cert III
Fabrication with the help of RPL
Despite many years' experience as a metal fabricator, a year ago Julian Walsh couldn't get a job to match his skills because he lacked the formal qualifications employers required.
Mr Walsh made ends meet by driving trucks and taking on small welding jobs at home, until he discovered The Bremer Institute of TAFE's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program.
Now the 26-year-old has a Certificate III in Fabrication and the potential to earn up to $100,000 plus per year.
The Bremer Institute of TAFE boiler-making teacher Steve Horne said Mr Walsh's story was similar to that of many Queensland workers.
"Many people start as a labourer working in the industry and climb up the ranks within a company," Mr Horne said.
"However, when they try to look for another job, they don't get a look-in because they lack the qualifications to match their skills.
"Through the RPL program, we formally recognise prior industry experience to significantly cut down the time it takes to complete formal qualifications.
"The RPL process also identifies the gaps in the students' experience and provides a flexible training plan in order to complete the qualification.
"That way our students don't have to study things where they are already proficient, and can get out in the workforce as quickly as possible."
Mr Horne said people across a range of industries could apply for RPL, providing they had gained skills or prior knowledge in their field of work.
"Students complete the remaining units of study through flexible gap training options, which can be delivered full-time or in the evening."
Mr Horne said the Queensland Government also offer suitable candidates substantial subsidies towards their RPL fees.
Mr Walsh said job opportunities were opening up all over the country now that he had formal qualifications.
"There are local jobs available and I've also been offered work at a mine up north that pays about $160,000 a year," Mr Walsh said.
"I also have the option of studying underwater welding for three years, which will qualify me for positions that pay even more.
"I would never have dreamed that I could have earned so much, things have certainly turned full-circle for me."
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