Developing our Future Workforce at CCI’s functions centre in Perth

On Wednesday June 29^th Apprenticeship Support Australia and Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western Australia (CCI) held a Teacher PD Day Beyond 2020: Developing our Future Workforce at CCI’s functions centre in Perth, Western Australia.

Over 80 high school teachers were invited to hear industry experts discuss the future of technology in the workforce and give their insight into what type of valuable skills students will need.

Keynote speakers Charlie Gunningham CEO of Business News, Lainey Weiser from Just Start IT and Professor Lyn Beazley all shared their inspiring stories and why they believe students today need a stronger focus on modern technology, science and entrepreneurship.

Apprenticeship Support Australia WA Manager, Lena Constantine said “It’s important that high school students of today understand the skill requirements employers are looking for so they are fully prepared for the future. Teachers are the influencers and have access to students — it’s important that teachers have the opportunity to hear from industry direct.”

A diverse panel of industry experts within recruitment, business development and management also shared their first-hand recruiting and hiring experience and what they are looking for in potential candidates. 

 

“What struck a chord with me was the emphasis our industry experts put on the need for well-developed soft skills, such as attitude and work ethics. It was also interesting to hear the importance of giving students simple technical skills like basic Excel proficiency. This seems to be lacking in graduating students today,” says Constantine.
 

Beyond 2020: Developing our Future Workforce provided the perfect opportunity to bring teachers and employers together to ensure that their students are job ready beyond 2020.