Australian Industry Trade College Rookies Challenge

HVIA was recently invited to the Australian Industry Trade College (AITC) Rookies Challenge at Emu Gully.

Craig Lee, HVIA Director and Penske Australia’s Executive General Manager of on-highway division, was able to attend and discuss the exciting career opportunities that exist within the heavy vehicle industry.

Over 150 career-driven students from the six AITC campuses were intrigued to learn about the future direction of the heavy vehicle industry, and its importance within the Australian economy, as Mr Lee shared his insights and encouraged the young people on some of the keys to success.

The students then had fun inspecting the new generation MAN Truck on display, with many contemplating automotive careers, keen to learn all the technical detail about the vehicle.

The AITC is a deliberately different senior school, connecting students in Years 10 – 12 with opportunities in industry, and industry with great young people.

Its unique industry education program provides a clear and rewarding pathway into a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship, whilst still in school, for a sustainable and successful career.

It has a unique focus on practical application, and a specialised curriculum aimed at providing work-ready graduates.

The Rookies Challenge is a week-long comprehensive induction program for new AITC students, prior to the start of term.

The adventure is an opportunity to break the nexus from ‘traditional’ schooling and to start preparing young people for their first round of work experience and the world of work, in a way that fosters a sense of belonging within their campuses and fellow graduates.

Pictured: Young people from the AITC Toowoomba campus at the Rookies Challenge in April 2022