ALMOST 200 Tasmanian apprentices dropped out of the building and construction industry during a downturn, but now they are desperately wanted back.
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The government and industry is calling on any apprentices who fell out of the trade to register online through Skills Tasmania and help fill a skills shortage in the building sector.
Tasmanian Building and Construction Industry Training Board chairwoman Tracy Matthews said there were 1200 apprentices in the industry.
‘‘We’re projecting that’s half the amount that will be needed over the foreseeable future,’’ Ms Matthews said.
‘‘I can really think of nothing more disappointing for a young person who has chosen a career path who has not been able to complete their training.’’
Ms Matthews said the register was critical to ensuring businesses could connect with those wishing to rejoin the industry.
State Growth Minister Matthew Groom said the number of apprentices in the sector dropped 19 per cent in 2013-14.
‘‘With major projects under way or about to begin, like the silos development in Launceston, the Living City project in Devonport and the Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment in Hobart, the number of apprentices needed in the building and construction sector is going to increase dramatically,’’ Mr Groom said.
‘‘What we’re seeking to do is encourage anyone who has previously fallen out of an apprenticeship to come back in.’’