They say you’re never too old for a change and that’s certainly the case for mature age apprentice, Ellie Grove who has recently commenced an adult apprenticeship with Dingo Australia.
The former South African resident has lived in Australia the past six years and is excited at the prospect of being the first female apprentice to work in the assembly shed at the busy Dalby based factory.
The family owned company are leaders in innovation and technology with their mini diggers and trailers used extensively by landscapers, tradesmen, miners and hire companies throughout Australia and New Zealand.
With two of her three sons employed in mechanical trades in Dalby, Ellie won’t have to look too far if she needs help with completing her Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Fitting and Turning).
“When I need help and advice I know I can always call on them. It’s great we can chat about our trades after work and support each other through our training,” Ellie said.
Dingo Australia Administration and Training Coordinator Angela Paterson said it was Company Director, Gary Briggs who approached Ellie after seeing her perform well in her role as a part time cleaner with Dingo during the past three years.
“We were impressed with her commitment and her attention to detail and thought her skills and abilities might be better suited in the assembly shed. We decided to offer her an apprenticeship and she has fitted in really well with the team,” Ms Paterson said.
As part of her apprenticeship training Ellie has been learning about the maintenance and servicing of earth moving equipment and the wiring of harnesses for the machinery.
“I never in my wildest dreams thought I’d be doing something like this. There’s a lot to learn but it’s very exciting at the same time.”
“The staff here are wonderful to work with and the other tradesman are always willing to share their mechanical knowledge,” Ms Grove said.
As for the future Ellie said she would like to do further study once she completes her apprenticeship.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to further my education. I would never have had the opportunity to do a trade in South Africa so I feel this is just the beginning of something really great here,” Ms Grove added.
BUSY At Work Industry Training Consultant, Rachel de Jonge said BUSY was excited to see Ellie starting out on a new career.
“Ellie is proving to be a great asset in the workplace and we are delighted that we are able to provide her with the services, including mentoring support, throughout her apprenticeship at Dingo Australia.”
BUSY At Work has developed an excellent working relationship with Dingo Australia having signed up more 100 apprentices and trainees during the past 10 years.
“We really appreciate the support that Dingo Australia gives us by trusting us to deliver on all their apprenticeship needs,” Ms de Jonge said.
BUSY At Work, CEO Paul Miles said BUSY was pleased to support employers who were willing to give people like Elle an opportunity to work in what was historically a male dominated industry.
“Ellie has demonstrated a positive commitment to her trade and with the right training and mentoring she will continue to make a valuable contribution to her employer,” Mr Miles said.
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Image Caption: (L-R) Angela Paterson, Ems (Ellie) Grove, Casey Smith
MEDIA CONTACT:
Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
0438 173 960 | leanne.macnamara@busyatwork.com.au
