NEW BLUE COLLAR ELITE PROVE IT PAYS TO BE SKILLED

National research out yesterday revealing blue collar workers are the 21st Century’s
powerhouse employees has highlighted the importance of partnerships between
industry and education and training providers.

Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White said the wage figures, released by Suncorp Bank,
dispelled the long-held myth that the only way to have a successful career was to
complete a university qualification.

“In the past blue collar workers haven’t been held in the same esteem as professionals,
but what these findings reveal is that often their earning capacity is outstripping that of
their white collar counterparts,” Mr White said.

“Many industries that have been traditionally described as blue collar are now enjoying
very good wage levels and fantastic career paths, including the mechanical services and
construction sectors.

“For example the utilities industry, which was ranked the second highest earning
industry in the nation, provides employment opportunities in plumbing, electrical,
mechanical and renewable energies to name a few.

“Not only can trainees and apprentices in these industries complete their trade, but they
can choose to carry out further studies to move into the project management, design,
engineering or consulting side of the business as well.”

Mr White said one of the reasons trade industries were so successful in attracting good
recruits was that they had lifted the aspirations of young people to work in their
industries, giving them a better understanding of the benefits and career paths available
in these sectors.

“Other industries could follow the lead of the trade industries in partnering with
vocational education and training providers and ultimately being seen to proactively
engage and promote their industry sectors as great places to work,” he said.
Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White