North Mackay's McCarthy Panel Works is a family-owned business dedicated to training and upskilling the next generation in the collision repair industry. The small business has initiated over 30 apprentice agreements and are renowned for delivering successful apprenticeships for individuals, some of whom identify with disability.
Owners Craig and Andrea have had great success with the Queensland Government's Back to Work program, which has allowed them to employ and train team members Alex, Lachie and most recently Danie, prior to their apprenticeship commencements.
They were able to access incentive payments to better support their team and assess if this is the right fit for both the individual as well as the business before signing on for the apprenticeship journey, and the results have been nothing but positive.
Alex has since completed his apprenticeship and is now a qualified tradesman. Lachie has dyslexia and has been able to complete his apprenticeship over a longer period of time after Andrea and Craig, together with their training provider, adapted his training program to suit his needs. Lachie is expected to complete his apprenticeship towards the end of the year after 6 years of hard work and dedication.
Andrea said, 'It's all about looking at the individual person and bringing forth what they can bring to the table, and how we can all work together with a most holistic approach.'
Danie, who identifies as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, is completing her apprenticeship as a spray technician and Andrea is mentoring her through the Motor Trades Association Queensland Auto Women. Andrea said, 'Danie is doing awesome, and we all embrace the indigenous culture she brings to the workplace.'
Andrea has also seen potential in Alex and Lachie and would like to support them in developing their management and leadership skills. The Back to Work Program offers small business short courses, which Andrea is planning to utilise for the whole team. The free, self-paced online courses are available for everyone to access regardless of eligibility, and the content is suitable for anyone working in small business who is seeking professional development opportunities.
Andrea is also looking into utilising the Harrison Tool for Retention. This survey-style tool will help keep the lines of communication open and highlight what motivates staff and how employers can work with their employees to develop successful, long-term working relationships.
McCarthy Panel Works were awarded Small Employer of the Year at the 2023 Queensland Training Awards for their dedication to training and upskilling the next generation to strengthen the panel repair industry.
Alex, Lachie and Danie are now dedicated long-term employees at McCarthy Panel Works. Andrea said, 'I would be happy to encourage any small business to apply for the Back to Work program, it has been fantastic for us.'
Last updated 25 September 2023
