First Nations young people now have direct access to a career in one of Sydney’s fastest-growing trades through a new apprenticeship program established by infrastructure services provider Ventia.  

The growing climate control trade – or heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) to give it its industry name – is unable to keep pace with rising demand due to a lack of skilled technicians. 

Ventia’s Indigenous HVAC Apprenticeship Program has been designed to provide sustainable career pathways for First Nations young people in this ‘trade of the future’.

Already the first three apprentices, including Kieran Bell, are learning their trade.

Mr Bell said earning the apprenticeship had been life-changing, helping him over come issues with mental health and supporting his family.

“I work in a workplace where I feel important and equal with other staff; everyone is treated fairly and with respect, regardless of age, race or religion,” he said.

The apprenticeship was a good opportunity to jump on board with a large progressive organisation.

“I’d like to be a fully qualified HVAC tradesman, with potential to work with Ventia for many years to come.”

Project Director Jeff Kennedy said the Apprenticeship Program was about more than providing excellent facilities management services to the City of Sydney.

“Certainly, this helps Ventia ensure Sydney’s public facilities, including iconic places like Sydney Town Hall and Customs House, are in top shape for the millions of residents, businesses, community groups and tourists who visit and use them,” Jeff said.

“But the training and experience apprentices get working on such a large portfolio of complex properties goes well beyond a standard apprenticeship."

The broad nature of our scope of works and the equipment we deal with on a day-to-day basis, including Commercial, Industrial, Residential & Aquatics Systems, provide a unique learning environment.

“The vast range of competencies improve our apprentices' future employability and career options, creating a true career path."

“Additionally, we’re training them up in skills that improve the environmental sustainability of HVAC.”

Jeff said the program was a testament to the meaningful and enduring benefits that true engagement with Indigenous communities can achieve.

“We partnered with a number of community organisations – including Mob Ready and Zeal Futures – to ensure the program meets the needs of young First Nations people,” he said.

This is one of a number of Indigenous traineeship programs established by Ventia in Sydney, including an annual position in the social housing sector that allows a First Nations student to learn practical skills on-the-job while they complete their studies.

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