South Australian apprentices have the opportunity to kick start their career in naval shipbuilding, with Australia’s largest defence shipbuilding organisation ASC currently recruiting new talent to join the ranks. 

Applications are now open for the shipbuilder’s annual apprentice intake, with positions available for more than 25 apprenticeship positions in trades including metal fabrication, electrical and mechanical engineering.

The successful recruits will be employed at ASC’s sites in Adelaide and Henderson in WA, and build their skills for upcoming submarine programs.

ASC Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley said apprenticeships offered young people who were starting their employment journey, and those considering a career change, the opportunity of rewarding work on programs that were important to Australia’s future.

“This is an exciting time for Australia’s submarine industry as we sustain the Collins Class fleet, prepare for their life-of-type extension and build the trades and engineering skills that will be needed to support future shipbuilding programs,” Mr Whiley said.

“Apprentices who join ASC develop skills for life, in long-term and secure jobs. They have opportunities to progress their careers as Australia’s defence industries continue to grow.”

ASC currently employs 74 apprentices and has almost doubled the number of females in the group from six to 11 since the end of last year.

Apprentices receive on-the-job and theory training from ASC’s experienced experts, as well as the chance to pursue long-term careers in Australia’s growing submarine industry by working on Collins Class programs.

Last year, ASC also welcomed 12 apprentices who formerly worked on the Attack Class submarine program, under the Sovereign Shipbuilding Talent Pool program.

Mr Whiley strongly encouraged women to consider careers in Australia’s submarine industry, and to apply to the ASC apprenticeship intake.

“I’m proud that ASC provides a welcoming and supportive workplace that harnesses all the skills and talents that are found across our community,” Mr Whiley said.

Mikkie Johnstone (pictured) is two years into an apprenticeship at ASC, and learning skills including welding and metal fabrication, to complete a Cert 3 in fabrication engineering.

“I’d encourage anyone who has thought about a career in submarines to step forward and apply,” she said. “It’s a rewarding job that gives you the pride of having welded things and worked on structures that become part of Australia’s submarines.”

ASC sustains the Collins Class submarine fleet through major and minor sustainment activities and upgrades at Osborne in SA and Henderson in WA. The Collins Class life-of-type extension program will ensure the fleet continues serving Australia into the 2040s and integrate contemporary technology.

Applications for the apprentice program close on July 18.

To apply visit the ASC website.