Apprentice and training manager Keira Badke shares the secrets of what Riviera is looking for from our Academy of Excellence apprentice candidates.

Riviera is building towards an even brighter future by forging strong links with local schools to assemble its next cohort of team members.

Since 2019, Riviera’s Apprentice and Training Manager Keira Badke has welcomed almost 1400 teachers, students and Industry Liaison Officers (ILO) each year to our Gold Coast headquarters to showcase a pathway towards a career in the marine industry.

“Inviting teachers and ILOs to visit our Academy of Excellence is an important part of our recruitment,’’ Keira says. “If the teachers and schools are not fully aware of the significant opportunities that Riviera can offer their students, then they cannot see the attractive career options available within the marine industry.

“The tours showcase the 10 different trades we offer as apprenticeships. Our information sessions help promote the marine industry and educate teachers and ILOs about the different career pathways Riviera has on offer.’’

Riviera hosts about 600 people each year at its three apprenticeship information nights. We also welcome 20 school tours each year and provide work experience for up to 250 students across 10 trades every September.

“I love the Riviera program. Students and parents get the opportunity to speak to staff and tour the facilities before embarking on a career in boat building, ensuring they have all the important information,’’ Lynn Davies, ILO at Foxwell State Secondary College, said after a recent visit to the Academy of Excellence, our world-class training facility.

Lynn says several of her students have already completed work experience at Riviera and one former student is undertaking their apprenticeship.

“I advise our students to work on their attendance at school, research Riviera and the different roles on offer (knowledge is power), attend information sessions and do work experience. They must understand the commitment required to complete an apprenticeship.’’

Zarah Murray, the Link and Launch coordinator at Marsden State High School, says: “The pathway provided by Riviera’s Academy of Excellence helps provide that little extra support and advice young people require when they are making career choice decisions”.

“I walked away with a quote from Keira who said that Riviera ‘trains to retain’,’’ Zarah said. “That is exactly what these young people need; someone who wants to train them and keep them employed. They need to have opportunities that really are endless.’’

“I tell students if you want a high-class apprenticeship and to learn skills that you can use all over the world, then consider applying to Riviera.” Daniela Farrell