Building the next generation of mechanical engineering talent

As Australia’s manufacturing, engineering and infrastructure sectors continue to evolve, skilled mechanical engineers and technicians play an important role in supporting innovation, productivity and growth. Apprenticeships provide employers with an opportunity to develop this talent from the ground up while building practical skills aligned to their business needs. 

We spoke with Claire, one of our Industry Employment Consultants, about the opportunities and challenges facing the mechanical engineering industry, the value of apprenticeships and how MEGT can help employers develop their future workforce. 

Why are mechanical engineering apprenticeships becoming increasingly important for Australian businesses? 

Apprenticeships give businesses an opportunity to develop the skilled workforce they need for the future. Rather than recruiting someone with existing experience, employers can develop an apprentice who understands their equipment, processes, safety requirements and way of working. 

I see this firsthand with the apprentices I support. They’re gaining practical experience, contributing to real projects and developing their skills while completing their formal training. 

What makes mechanical engineering a valuable career pathway for people entering the workforce? 

Mechanical engineering offers a wide range of practical experiences, from fabrication and installing components to interpreting plans, using tools and understanding how engineering projects come together. 

Alongside technical skills, apprentices develop problem-solving, communication, teamwork and safety skills. For someone who enjoys practical tasks and figuring out how things work, it’s a career with plenty of opportunities to keep learning and developing. 

What are the long-term benefits for an employer of training a mechanical engineering apprentice from the ground up? 

Training an apprentice allows an employer to develop someone who understands their business, systems, equipment and workplace culture from the ground up. 

As they progress, apprentices become more skilled, confident and independent, helping businesses build the workforce they’ll need for the future. 

How does MEGT support employers who take on mechanical engineering apprentices? 

One of the biggest benefits is that employers don’t have to navigate the apprenticeship journey alone. In my role, I maintain regular contact with the employer and apprentice through site visits and check-ins to monitor progress and identify any support needs. 

If an issue arises, I can work with the employer, apprentice and Registered Training Organisation to address it early. It’s about building a relationship and being there to provide guidance throughout the apprenticeship. 

What support does the apprentice receive throughout their training? 

Apprentices receive ongoing support from MEGT through regular site visits and check-ins. They have someone outside their immediate workplace they can speak to about their training, progress, workplace experience or any challenges they’re facing. 

For me, one of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing that progression. As their skills develop, you can see apprentices become more confident, independent and take greater ownership of their work.

For employers looking to build technical capability and develop skilled talent for the future, mechanical engineering apprenticeships offer a practical way to grow a workforce from the ground up. 

Through MEGT, employers can access apprentices while receiving ongoing support across recruitment, employment, training and workforce management. 

Find out how MEGT can help your business employ and support a mechanical engineering apprentice.