Trades apprentice numbers down, workforce shortage warnings
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Enrollments in plumbing and electrical apprenticeships have fallen significantly according to sector leaders, who warn of a workforce shortage when the economy begins to recover.
Master Plumbers says there are half the number of apprentice plumbers this year than in previous years, while Master Electricians say apprenticeship rates are at their lowest levels since 2011.
The warning comes as a survey of builder sentiment out this morning finds 50 per cent of builders are operating at less than half capacity.
A trade apprentice learns on the job with an employer. Master Plumbers Chief Executive Greg Wallace, says the prolonged contraction in the construction sector is to blame, and jobs in Queensland ahead of the 2032 Olympics are luring qualified plumbers.
He speaks with Kathryn, along with Master Electricians Chief Executive Alex Vranyac-Wheeler.
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