Australia may be recording decade-high apprentice completions, but the number of new apprentices entering blue-collar trades is still far too low to meet industry demand. Hunter Valley tradie, Brad Harold, says his own story shows exactly what young people stand to gain by choosing the path to logistics and construction through an apprenticeship.
Brad began as an apprentice auto electrician with Boom Logistics in 2002 and has since worked his way through maintenance, supervision, operations and business management to now lead regional operations across NSW and Victoria. He emphasises that the opportunities available for apprentices today are far greater than many school leavers realise, yet the number stepping forward remains stubbornly low.
“If I didn’t start as an apprentice 23 years ago, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” Brad said. “There are huge career pathways in trades, real leadership opportunities, and the chance to work on major projects that keep this country running. But we simply don’t have enough new apprentices coming through, and the industry is feeling the pressure.”
National data released this year shows apprentice completions are strengthening, but new graduates are failing to keep pace with the growth of construction, energy, maintenance and heavy industry. Regions like the Hunter, where infrastructure and industrial work continue to expand, are already experiencing the early signs of these shortages.
“The safety culture in this business is second to none. They genuinely care about their people, and that’s why I’ve stayed here for more than two decades,” Brad said.
Brad credits his long-term career with the training and support he received from Boom Logistics, including leadership programs, on the job upskilling and a Diploma of Business Management.
“Working on the tools before moving into management gave him a practical understanding of the pressures, risks and responsibilities carried by frontline workers,” he said.
“Young people often think a trade locks you into one job forever. In reality, it can take you anywhere. I never imagined I’d be managing operations across two states.”
Brad, who is now raising his family in the Hunter Valley, said the region offers strong long-term prospects for apprentices willing to commit to learning a trade. He said many local young people are unaware that the demand for skilled workers has never been higher.
“If you’re finishing school or looking for a career change, this is the best time in years to step into a trade. The work is here, the career pathways are here, and the industry needs you.”
Brad hopes sharing his career journey will encourage more school leavers, job seekers and career changers to pursue apprenticeships in electrical, mechanical and heavy industrial fields, helping build the next generation of Australia’s infrastructure workforce.