Developing the right skills will be key in driving economic recovery. Trade-based skills have been in demand throughout the pandemic, with this demand expected to continue from the construction/infrastructure and manufacturing sectors.

However, skills shortages in some trades have been around for a long time. The NSW Productivity Commission recently highlighted a number that have been in shortage for more than twenty years. Companies have continued to employ apprentices in these trades but the gap never closes for some trades. Skilled migration has helped to make up shortfalls in the past. But now, with that avenue severely restricted and with apprentice commencement numbers falling through the floor because of the downturn, what are our options for growing our own skills?

Can we reinvigorate the apprenticeship model? What about other occupations? Can apprenticeships be broadened to encompass jobs at higher levels or outside of the trades?

In this webinar, Megan Lilly, Ai Group's Head of Education and Training, was joined by Anthony Kittel, Managing Director of advanced electronics manufacturer Redarc Electronics and Suzanne Shipp, CEO of premium metal processing services company Laser Central, to canvas topics including:

• the persistence of some skills shortages
• the state of apprentice commencements during the pandemic
• Government budget announcements affecting apprenticeships
• alternative proposals to maintain skills needs
• how to make apprenticeships more attractive to young workers/career changers
• extending the apprenticeship model beyond the trades.