There were hardhats and high viz vests as far as the eye could see on Thursday 13 September as 80 potential tradies took part in a construction industry Orientation Day. The annual event, a joint venture between Master Builders Victoria (Geelong Section) and The Gordon, offers Geelong students a firsthand insight into the range of opportunities available to them in the sector. Projects visited included Hamlan Home’s townhouse development in Newtown and Lyons Construction’s Highton Enhanced Children’s Centre currently under construction for the City of Greater Geelong.
Norm Lyons, Lyons Construction’s Chairman and a stalwart of the building industry in Geelong has been a long-time supporter of the orientation days. Norm believes, “The future of our industry is reliant on more young people seeing trades as a viable and rewarding career choice and it is our responsibility to foster this new generation of trade professionals.” One such new generation tradie is Declan Robertson, Lyons Constructions’ carpentry apprentice. Declan’s interest in the industry was piqued at an orientation day four years ago. Declan is now nearly half way through his apprenticeship and showing great aptitude for carpentry and a sound work ethic; all adding up to him being a really valued member of the Lyons Construction team. We wish all the students who have the same aspirations as Declan the best of luck and do hope that many of them are able to pursue their dreams.