New program to assist migrant engineers

Overseas-qualified engineers who are struggling to find work in Australia will benefit from a free online program offered by La Trobe University, supported by the City of Greater Shepparton and the Committee for Greater Shepparton.

The six-week Preparation for Professional Employment (P4PE) Program Pilot will assist overseas-trained engineers to find work, while at the same time filling a critical skills gap in regional Victoria.

Participants will upskill in several key areas to improve their employment prospects, including Australian workplace culture and recruitment practices, quality assurance and compliance, and presentation and networking skills.

Chris Stoltz, Professor of Practice (Engineering) at La Trobe University, said having more overseas-qualified engineers working in Australia would greatly ease the pressure on industry.

“The latest figures from Engineers Australia show that the demand each year for engineering graduates in Australia is about 16,000 — but universities are only producing about 9000 each year,” he said. “Yet 47% of migrants actively seeking a job as an engineer are currently underemployed, often working in less-skilled industries to get by — which is exactly what this program aims to address.”

Dr Megan Fisher, La Trobe Pro Vice-Chancellor Industry Engagement, said La Trobe is well positioned to support overseas-qualified engineers to find work in Australia.

“The university has strong connections into industry, including in regional areas like Shepparton, and acutely understands the workforce shortages being experienced by employers,” Fisher said. “This program will equip overseas-trained engineers with the skills they need, and a new network of potential employers, making it much easier for them to secure and retain a job long-term.”

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Cr Shane Sali said the council understands how challenging it can be for regional employers to find engineers, which is why this program is so important.

“By supporting overseas-trained professionals, Greater Shepparton is strengthening and diversifying the local workforce, and creating new opportunities for culturally diverse communities to thrive,” he said.

The project is a partnership between La Trobe University, Greater Shepparton City Council, the Committee for Greater Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley Infrastructure Network.

The program is open for applications until Friday, 19 August. Overseas-trained engineers are invited to register here.

For further information, contact Catherine Klimeš, Program Manager Innovation & Entrepreneurship at accelerator@latrobe.edu.au.