Keen to support the ag industry
Growing up at Edenhope, Georgia Baxter knows the important role that farmers and farm support services play in Australia’s economy.
Georgia, 19, is a first-year service technician apprentice at O’connors in Horsham and is part of the business’ exclusive Redstart apprenticeship program.
Redstart is a program for apprentices and trainees to take their first step in a long-term and secure career.
For those wanting to get started in the agricultural industry, Redstart delivers on-the-job support and mentoring from experienced and qualified supervisors, as well as specialised Case IH training in state-of-the-art workshops and training facilities across the O’connors dealership network.
All successful Redstart apprenticeship candidates are enrolled into the Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology.
“Day-to-day, I assist senior service technicians in repairing and servicing all types of machinery,” Georgia said.
“Learning from the senior technicians is really rewarding and it’s amazing how much they know – as mentors they are a great source of information and confidence when working on high-performance machinery.”
Redstart apprentices also complete group training at TAFENSW in Wagga Wagga.
The facility has a dedicated Case IH training centre where apprentices are given skills and technical knowledge in a hands-on environment.
“The opportunity to complete training with other Redstart apprentices and getting the opportunity to work on the latest product range from Case IH was a big draw card,” Georgia said.
“We integrate real-world customer servicing and simulated training at TAFENSW during our training.
“It gives us the ability to create complex issues as a simulation and solve them in a controlled environment, so when the time comes for real, we are ready for the challenge”
Wayne Sibrey, head teacher of automotive, is responsible for delivering the program to Redstart apprentices.
“We have a partnership with Case IH who supply the latest machinery and components for the program, ensuring our students are given access to the most up-to-date and advanced equipment,” Wayne said.
Unique to Redstart, every student successful in securing an apprentice position receives a topof-the-range Kincrome Toolbox, filled with the tools they need, worth $5000.
“The toolbox incentive is a really good idea and it’s really been helpful having my own tools to do my job,” Georgia said.
“We also undertake group training as a year level, which is a great networking opportunity.
“You get to know all the other apprentices in your year level and create good professional relationships.”
When asked what she hopes to be doing in five years’ time, Georgia said: “I hope to be a senior technician myself, teaching apprentices like me.”
People wanting more information can email redstart@jjoconnor.com.au or phone 0448 598 000.
Applications are available via www.oconnors careers.com.au/redstart