Building our Region’s Skilled Workforce

This lunch session will discuss how finding and keeping skilled staff is a common challenge facing regional businesses. Learn how apprentices and trainees can help you build a reliable, job-ready workforce that’s tailored to your business – reducing recruitment pressure, improving productivity, and supporting long-term growth.

Industry Advocate, John Chapman OAM, will explain how ongoing investment in regional areas is creating new opportunities for local businesses to connect with larger projects and supply chain partnerships. By strengthening your team and planning ahead, you can better position your business to take advantage of investment in the Riverland.

You’ll also hear from Hugo Kregar, 2023 Apprentice of the Year, who completed his carpentry apprenticeship with Michael Kregar Building in Berri. Hugo will share insights into the skills he gained, his passion for mental health on-site, including organising ‘Mates in Construction’ training for over 40 trade professionals and his commitment to encouraging young people into trades.

Whether you’re an employer looking to strengthen your team or someone considering a trade career, this session offers practical takeaways on how apprenticeships can deliver real value.

Presented by:

• John Chapman OAM, Office of the Industry Advocate
• Hugo Kregar, Michael Kregar Building