Students to benefit from local industry experience

A new generation joined the water industry recently, as Gippsland Water welcomed 12 students to their annual vacation employment program.

Managing Director Sarah Cumming said she was excited by the opportunities being presented to local students and recognised the importance of creating employment pathways for youth in Gippsland.

“The vacation student program is one of the many ways we support our local community, by creating opportunities for young people to gain valuable work experience without having to leave the region,” Ms Cumming said.

“The diversity of skill sets required to deliver all of our services means we are well-placed to provide valuable on-the-job training for students in their area of study”.

This year’s intake marks an increase on previous years, reflecting the organisation’s focus on regional employment growth and skills development.

“The quality and quantity of applications received this year was impressive,” Ms Cumming said.

“Not only does this highlight the calibre of talent we have right here in Gippsland, but it also shows that the work we do is more than just delivering water and wastewater,” Ms Cumming said, “it’s essential for life”.

The three month program has attracted students from a range of disciplines including engineering, science, business and communications.

“The vacation program has also proven effective in launching the careers of students, with one in five participants moving into ongoing employment with us.

“We’re proactively working with educational providers and industry partners to ensure the continued development of these pathways in regional areas,” Ms Cumming concluded.

Before the program wraps up in mid-February, the students will visit a range of Gippsland Water assets, including the Gippsland Water Factory and the Soil and Organic Recycling Facility.