Technology Cadetships are a fast track start to a career in Manufacturing and they may suit some of your clients, particularly school leavers.

The Technology Cadetship is a new initiative developed by the Ai Group (Australian Industry Group) to provide more efficient pathways for people to enter technical occupations in the modern Manufacturing Industry.

Technology Cadetships…

• Are a new kind of entry level qualification aimed primarily at school leavers
• Allow the Cadet to 'earn while they learn'
• Are assessed by competency, not time served
• Combine on the job training, by supervisors and technicians, with formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
• Are a formal agreement between employer and Cadet and arrangements are set out in a contract of training and employment similar to Australian Apprenticeships

Technology Cadetships…

• Lead to a nationally recognised Qualification
• Are available at Certificate III and IV in Manufacturing Technology
• Generally take 1 to 2 years to complete

Technology Cadetships are flexible enough to develop a tailored package of skills to suit for business or enterprise needs. The range of pathways includes…

• CAD/Drafting (Detail Draftsperson or CAD Operator)
• Manufacturing Operations (Production Planner, Estimator)
• Laboratory Operations (Junior Scientific Officer or Technician)
• Technical Officer (Quality Control Officer or Non-Destructive Testing Technician)

Technology Cadetships provide the Cadet not only specific technical skills but also analytical, problem solving and planning skills and they have a strong focus on flexibility and innovation. Importantly they are a great platform for further career development. It is possible go on to Certificate V and VI (Diploma, Advanced Diploma), and the Cadet may also obtain credit for Engineering Degree entrance.

Year 12 is generally considered a minimum entry requirement and maths, science and design and technology are considered advantageous subjects.

They can apply for recognition of existing skills. This is known as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Recognition of Current Competency (RCC). Recognised skills and competency can lead to a Statement of Attainment for Units of Competency or count towards the achievement of a Training Package Qualification.

See also Recognition of Skills

• Will be employed under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries – Skills Development – Wages and Conditions Award 2004
• Will be paid a Cadetship wage based upon that Award
• Is entitled to superannuation, workers' compensation and other entitlements which will generally be the same as those of other employees

Applying for a Technology Cadetship…

• Ai Group Training Services (AiGTS) is a group training company who employ Technology Cadets and place them with host employers. You can apply online at Ai Group
• Some employers may advertise from time to time in newspapers and other careers services such as online

For more information on Technology Cadetships go to Ai Group Technology Cadetship webpages.