Harvey finds fitting role

Growing up on a farm prepared apprentice worker Harvey Phillips (above) for a new pathway working with machines.

GROWING up on a farm prepared apprentice worker Harvey Phillips for a new pathway working with machines.

The 19-year old Innisfail man is In his second year working as a diesel-fitter for Hastings Deering in Cairns and has come to love his newfound independence.

“This is my first full-time apprenticeship gig after finishing school. I’ve been able to learn heaps on the job while earning a bit of pay,” he said.

“Most of an average day’s work involves stripping and building components and working with heavy mining gear.”

Hastings Deering acts as an external training provider for Queensland TAFE, allowing them to put their workers through training while on the job.

Mr Phillips said he was looking at carrying on working with the company after his ap- prenticeship was up.

“They really look after you here, the training is good and keeps you up to date,” he said.

“Work on the job teaches you welding, engine operation, transmission work and maintenance on heavy machinery.”

“Later in the year I’ll be flying down to Brisbane to complete my next training course.”

Mr Phillips went into the job already with a Certificate 2 in Automotives and Engineering from TAFE in Innisfail.

This helped him get his foot in the door during the application process, which is open to all new school-leavers provided they have demonstrated competency in maths and English.

“I learned a lot of skills and I want to be able to ply a trade and earn a living,” Mr Phillips said.

Hastings Deering is currently undertaking its apprenticeship recruitment drive with the opportunity to become an apprentice diesel-fitter in Cairns.