Smooth Sailing for Jamie

Life is looking good for engineering apprentice, Jamie Schofield, who has been given an opportunity to travel to Europe with his employer, Austal Ships, in acknowledgement of his achievements to date.

Jamie started his apprenticeship with Austal Ships in 2014, at the age of 18. The company is one of Australia’s leading builders of defence and commercial vessels, and there are more than 600 employees in the WA facility where Jamie is carrying out his training. He is currently studying his Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade, gaining skills that include metal fabrication, forging, founding, sheet metal work, welding and the use of related computer controlled equipment.

From the very beginning, Jamie’s employer was impressed with his attitude and commitment to his work and study. “It’s not something you always see in young people,” explains The Apprenticeship Community’s Jade Ackroyd, who has been working with Austal Ships to place and support apprentices over the four years. Jamie is now acting as a mentor to the younger apprentices who are just starting out with the company.

Jamie has been recognised for his efforts in the form of a nomination for the 2016 Austal Ships Apprentice of the Year. Nominated by his peers, Jamie was singled out for his drive, team work and commitment. In addition, Jamie was offered the chance to travel to Malta to work with the Fabrication Team on a vessel located overseas. “Apprentices aren’t usually offered trips like this,” says Jade, “But Austal have been so impressed with how Jamie is doing, they wanted to give him the chance to work in a different environment.”

The Apprenticeship Community is delighted that the now 20-year old is doing so well.