Qualification: Certificate III in Plumbing
Host Business: Kakadu Contracting NT
RTO: CDU
“I enjoy the challenges my trade provides and find that the more difficult the job, the greater the satisfaction I feel.”
Josiah Ross-Kelly, originally from Cairns relocated to Jabiru to work as a casual labour prior to starting a Plumbing Apprenticeship hosted to Kakadu Contracting NT.
His primary motivation for pursuing an apprenticeship was to obtain a trade qualification, which would provide him with knowledge and skills to fall back on, allowing him to gain work anywhere he chooses to live in the future. Financial security was another important motivating factor. Although often referred to as a "dirty job," plumbing is a financially sound career option, especially for tradesmen living and working in remote locations.
Josiah completes his Trade School blocks through Charles Darwin University, where he tackles the theory behind his trade. He enjoys trade school as it provides a break from the everyday routine and to interact with other apprentices and lecturers. One of the many highlights of his training so far has been the opportunity to live within Kakadu National Park, where he works independently and engages with new people.
In April of the previous year, Josiah and his co-workers attended two weeks of training that provided him with additional qualifications, including Remote First Aid and a High-Risk Licence.
Working for a multi-trade organisation with other trades has given him the opportunity to become a well-rounded tradesman in his chosen field. It also allows him to upskill his personal abilities while assisting other trades when required. He sees this as a unique opportunity to further his learning while completing his chosen trade and making strong connections with other tradespeople.
With increased responsibility and workload as a third-year apprentice, he is excited to reach his goal of becoming a fully qualified plumber by the end of the year.
Josiah was awarded the Calvert Commendation Award at the recent GTNT Group Awards.