Glazing Apprentice - Brett Hazeltine G.James Glass & Aluminium apprentice, Brett Hazeltine, 29, loves the challenge of applying the skills and training he is getting to solve problems and learn as much as he can on-the-job. Brett, an apprentice glazier, has been with the company for four years and has also used knowledge and expertise gained from previous jobs in his current one. Brett is studying a Certificate III in (Furnishing) Glass & Glazing and recieves training in-house from G.James Glass and Aluminium, a Registered Training Organisation. He has been assigned to a training facilitator who oversees his work on the glass assembly production line and on-site. Brett's work involves cutting and edge making, fitting frames and glazing. For each task the application of skills is what Brett enjoys. Brett says he loves the variety, the range of skills required for his job and feels once he is qualified he can go anywhere within the company. "At G.James Glass & Aluminium I have been given the opportunity to establish and secure my career path by working in supervisory roles learning how to manage a number of staff. "I feel I have a great future with the company and would like to move up into a management role and pursue further studies to get more qualifications," Brett said.

G.James Group of Companies The G.James Group of Companies, established in 1917, specialises in glass and aluminium manufacturing and has diversified into aluminium extrusion. Extrusion is a process where a large hydraulic ram forces softened aluminium billet through a die to create a shape, for example profiles used in the fabrication of aluminium windows and doors. G.James has a strong policy in providing quality training for its employees and wants to attract the best and brightest young people interested in securing a career in the light metals manufacturing sector. Extrusion General Manager, Derek Boden, says they encourage new entrants into the company and offer specialised training that will cater to their skills and abilities. "Learning is a life-long process and many of our staff started here as apprentices and now are managers running large divisions within the G.James Group," he said. "Obtaining a trade qualification provides young people with exemplary skills and training, and once they qualify the world is their oyster. "A tradesperson can enrol in further study and be sure in the knowledge they have career opportunities within the G.James Group. "G.James Extrusion has the latest in computer assisted design and computer assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology and staff here work at the high-end of light metals manufacturing," Derek said. "In partnership with the TAFE institutes we offer apprenticeships in the mechanical, electrical and technical areas and young people can receive a qualification in engineering. "There are opportunities for diversification within our company and tremendous potential for personal and professional growth. "Following the completion of the apprenticeship a qualified person can learn design engineering and computer aided drafting and, if they want to, move into sales and management. "The advantage for these young people today is they can be given the opportunities up front and earn while they learn," Derek said.