The 2019 Multi Trades class graduated at a ceremony held at the Westland Hotel at the end of December. The Multi Trades program focuses on basic skills that prepare people for work, supported by mentoring.

During 2016 RDAWEP worked with members of the Whyalla and Eyre Peninsula Heavy Industry Cluster, TAFE SA and the Department of State Development (DSD) to establish a Multi Trades vocational training program. The program involves training combined with supervised industry work placement to develop practical skills.

Participants enrol for a one year program that includes fulltime face-to-face training and supervised work placement. It has been developed primarily for heavy industry and supply chain businesses operating in manufacturing.

Approximately 110 participants have been involved in the program across the three years, with 75 percent of those completing the program securing employment.

Of the 20 students who graduated in 2019, nine studied both the electrical and mechanical components of the program and received academical transcripts for both, seven students completed the engineering component, and four completed the electrical component.  Nine students have gained employment so far giving the program a positive outcome.