At Batchelor Institute, we are committed to fostering the growth and development of Northern Territory communities by providing comprehensive training in civil construction. This initiative showcases the inspiring stories and experiences of our students and stakeholders who are part of this transformative journey.
Training in the Heart of the Community
Barry Whalan, our dedicated Resources and Infrastructure Trainer, emphasises the importance of community-based training. "Great training happens in the community," he stresses. By integrating projects that are meaningful and beneficial to the community, we see increased attendance and a deep respect for the learning process.
Empowering Future Leaders
Meet Latoya, a passionate student currently completing her Certificate II and III in Civil Construction at Batchelor Institute. Latoya's enthusiasm for operating heavy machinery, particularly the grader, is evident. "I like driving the grader because it has a lot of joysticks, and it really puts you in your mind. You have to be multitasking at all times," she shares.
Latoya encourages young Aboriginal women to pursue careers in civil construction, breaking traditional gender roles. "Girls, don't be shy to get out. We can do a men's job too," she affirms. She believes that the skills gained from this course will be invaluable for young Aboriginal people seeking opportunities in the machinery field.
Community Impact and Collaboration
The positive impact of our training programs extends beyond individual achievements. Alan Mole, CEO of Kalano Community Association Corporation, acknowledges the significance of training for Indigenous people. "I've seen a lot of successful outcomes over the years. Training is paramount for Indigenous people to get the jobs they want in their desired fields," he says.
Supporting Local Talent
Luke Vanstan, Stakeholder Manager at Lendlease Construction, highlights the importance of funding critical programs for local youth. "We've been able to fund some of these programs, providing the platform for local kids to progress into the industry and gain vital skills," he explains.
Creating Opportunities in Katherine
Alice Beilby, Managing Director of Savanna Solutions in Katherine, Northern Territory, praises the collaboration with Batchelor Institute. "For this particular project, we subcontracted under Lendlease. Batchelor is the registered training organisation we approached to run these training programs in Katherine," she mentions.
Alice notes the significant impact the training has had on the community, including job creation and the establishment of role models for local teenagers. "It sets up role models for local teenagers, encouraging them to follow in the footsteps of their family members into training," she adds.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Batchelor Institute remains dedicated to empowering Aboriginal communities through education and training. Our civil construction programs not only equip students with essential skills but also contribute to the overall development and prosperity of the communities we serve.
To learn more about our programs and how you can get involved, browse our website and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Let's continue to build a brighter future together.