On the job training boosts skills for local FFMVic team

Forest Fire Management Victoria’s (FFMVic) with a number of partners yesterday celebrated an important milestone, as one of their Forest and Fire Operations Officers became a qualified Diesel Mechanic.

Bairnsdale local Will Maynard was today congratulated by all those who helped train and support him on the journey to his qualification, which was completed during his employment with FFMVic.

Tambo District Manager Brad Fisher said having Will on board as a qualified diesel mechanic, in addition to his skills as a forest and fire operations officer, is a huge asset to the department.

“Will is a highly valued part of the team, and now brings us the added benefit of his qualification” said Mr Fisher.

“A lot of people have worked with Will along the way to reach this milestone, including the CFA where Will started his apprenticeship.

“Federation Training and Skillinvest provided training and support in partnership with local companies with heavy machinery and trucks where Will worked to gain specialised skills.

“We are really proud of Will and know he’ll do a great job helping us out with our vehicles and machinery up at the Swifts Creek depot, alongside his other roles in forest and fire management,” said Mr Fisher.

Apprenticeships consultant Howard Stobo from Skillinvest at Bairnsdale has worked with Will since he first started his apprenticeship, and spoke at the event to celebrate the achievement amongst Will’s colleagues, friends and family.

“The highlight of my role is to see young people reach their goals and complete their apprenticeship” he said.

“Having the opportunity to reach his potential and complete an apprenticeship not only benefits Will and his family, but also his employer and the community as a whole.

“It is a credit to everyone who has partnered to give Will this opportunity to work hard within a period to complete his training and gain the valuable work experience he needs to be the confident and competent tradesman he is today” said Mr Stobo.