Try-A-Trade: How Civil Safety Is Helping Students Explore Real Construction Careers

For many young people, choosing a career path can feel overwhelming. University is not the only option, and more students are now looking for practical, hands-on pathways that lead directly into employment. That is exactly why the Try-A-Trade Program delivered by Civil Safety is creating strong interest across the Goldfields region.

This week, nine school students from Eastern Goldfields College, Kalgoorlie-Boulder Community High School and John Paul College are taking part in Civil Safety’s first carpentry and plastering Try a Trade program in Kalgoorlie.

Delivered by Civil Safety as a pilot initiative and supported through Construction Training Fund (CTF) funding, the program gives students and job seekers the opportunity to experience the construction industry firsthand before committing to a trade pathway.

The early response has been positive. Students have praised the hands-on nature of the training, the opportunity to work with real tools, and the chance to learn directly from experienced industry trainers. At the completion of the program, participants will receive a Certificate of Participation that can support future entry-level trade opportunities.

For parents, students, and job seekers across regional Western Australia, programs like this are incredibly valuable, providing practical career exposure, real industry insight, and greater confidence in future employment opportunities.

What Is the Try-A-Trade Program?

The Try-A-Trade Program is a practical taster course designed to introduce participants to the building and construction industry, with a focus on carpentry and plastering pathways.

Unlike traditional classroom-based learning, the course is delivered in a simulated workplace environment where participants complete genuine trade tasks.

The program is open to:

• High school students in Year 9 and above

• Job seekers exploring career pathways

• Students applying individually or through participating schools

The current rollout includes:

• Carpentry and Plastering

• Welding and Civil Construction 

• Carpentry and Civil Construction

Why Hands-On Trade Experience Matters

Career decisions become easier when students can physically experience the work for themselves.

Many young people learn best through practical application rather than theory alone. Programs like this allow students to test their interests, build confidence, and develop real-world skills, without the pressure of committing immediately to a long-term apprenticeship.

Students are introduced not only to trade skills, but also to workplace expectations, communication, teamwork, and safety procedures. These are transferable employability skills that will benefit them regardless of the career path they eventually choose.

The construction industry continues to face workforce shortages across Western Australia, particularly in regional areas. Early exposure programs help create awareness of career opportunities while encouraging the next generation to consider trades as a viable and rewarding option.

For job seekers, the Try-A-Trade Program can also act as a stepping stone into employment, apprenticeships, or further vocational training.

What You’ll Learn During the Program

One of the biggest strengths of the program is its strong focus on practical learning. Students work directly with tools, materials, and construction techniques under the guidance of experienced trainers from Civil Safety.

Training includes:

• Workplace Safety and Hazard Awareness - safety is a core focus throughout the course.

• Safe Use of Hand and Power Tools - students gain hands-on experience using common carpentry and construction tools safely and correctly.

• Measuring and Marking Techniques - these foundational skills form the basis of many construction trades.

• Timber Frame Construction - students learn the basics of wall frame construction.

• Wall Installation and Levelling - students learn valuable introductory skills for anyone considering carpentry or broader construction work. 

• Plastering and Finishing Techniques - teaches students how to measure, cut, and install plasterboard, complete finishing work, and install cornices and skirting

Learning in a Simulated Workplace Environment

A major advantage of the program is that it mirrors real construction site conditions.

Rather than simply watching demonstrations, students actively participate in tasks while following industry-standard procedures and safety requirements.

This approach helps participants develop:

• Confidence

• Communication skills

• Teamwork

• Problem-solving abilities

• Workplace discipline

Students also gain a clearer understanding of employer expectations, which can make the transition into apprenticeships or employment smoother in the future.

What Is Construction Training Fund (CTF) Funding?

The Construction Training Fund (CTF) plays an important role in supporting workforce development within the Western Australian construction industry.

CTF funding helps subsidise training opportunities for both individuals and employers, making vocational education more accessible and helping create a skilled, sustainable workforce.

Civil Safety is proud to be an approved bulk billing provider for the Construction Training Fund in Western Australia.

Who Should Consider the Try-A-Trade Program?

The program is ideal for:

• High School Students - especially students who enjoy practical learning and hands-on work, or are considering apprenticeships or trades.

• Job Seekers - considering a career change or entry into the construction industry, the program offers valuable introductory experience and industry exposure.

The Try-A-Trade Program is giving students and job seekers across the Goldfields region an opportunity to experience the construction industry in a practical, supportive environment.

With strong backing from the Construction Training Fund (CTF) and delivery through Civil Safety Kalgoorlie, the initiative is helping participants build confidence, develop practical skills, and explore real career opportunities in trades and construction.

For parents, it provides valuable career exposure for young people. For students, it offers clarity about future pathways. And for job seekers, it creates an accessible entry point into a growing industry.

Places in these programs are limited, and interest is continuing to grow.

To learn more or secure a place in an upcoming course, contact Civil Safety Kalgoorlie today on 08 9092 1800 or email kalgoorlie@civilsafety.edu.au.