Nineteen-year-old Malikye Miniter has recently completed a work skill program geared towards providing skills and opportunities for Albany’s youth.

Mr Miniter left high school before finishing Year 12 and faced barriers when trying to gain employment, one of which was the limited transport options in Albany.

The 19-year-old enrolled in Albany-based Skill Hire’s General Education Program that aims to provide career opportunities for young people.

“There were a lot of issues, mainly with transport because there aren’t many options here,” Mr Miniter said.

Skill Hire General Education Program graduate Malikye Miniter. Credit: Laurie Benson

Part of the program is to participate in Keys4Life to help gain a driver’s licence, which Mr Miniter completed over three days.

“Since I didn’t get my learner’s permit in high school, I did the course and now it’s just a matter of going to the Department of Transport to get it,” he said.

“It’s a really good opportunity to build up some skills and get some qualifications.”

Mr Miniter said that although the program challenged him, he found it straightforward and highly rewarding.

“I thought it was going to be pretty challenging, but I ended up pulling through and completing it,” he said.

“It was pretty straightforward, and I am excited to reach a point of employment.”

Mr Miniter now holds a white card, a first aid certificate and an RSA as a result of the Skill Hire program and is optimistic about his future employment opportunities.

Skill Hire education mentor Giles Roberts said the program was designed to empower Albany’s young people and provide them with skills and qualifications to enter the workforce or further their education.

“The transport barrier is definitely a big one for rural students, and we are looking into how we can adapt the course to tick all the boxes and also find a way to deliver hybrid possibilities,” he said.

“We are definitely solutions-focused and aim to cater the program to a diverse range of young people who may have struggled with traditional education for various reasons.

“Our aim is to skill up specifically for gaining employment, re-entering the workforce and studying, as well as exploring small business enterprise options where suitable.”

[Original Article from Georgia Campion, Albany Advertiser]

K

Skill Hire really helped me to see that I can accomplish something if I set my mind to it and I completed my course 2 months prior to the completion date. Cheers guys!

M

Skill Hire are helpful and professional. Nicola was attentive to all my needs. Their timesheets systems were a breeze and always update us with messages. Thanks Skill Hire

S

I just wanted to thank Skill Hire's EST Trainers. Nathan is the absolute best trainer I’ve ever had privilege to meet by a WIDE margin and I appreciate everything done for all of us. I’m ecstatic about the internship opportunity.

G

Not only did Skill Hire respond quickly to our urgent need, your team took the time to understand our organization and our needs. The people sent to help out were outstanding and their ability to rapidly adapt to our workplace eased our burden during what was a very challenging few months.

P

My son has thoroughly enjoyed the Construction Pathways course. He spent the last 18 months being home schooled and not socializing with anyone so to see him eager to get up and leave the house every day still blows my mind. Simon, thank you for your understanding and taking extra care with my son.

J

I wanted to say a big thank you to Skill Hire and the team, especially Wayne for such an amazing experience for our students. All of our students were thoroughly engaged with the course and learned many valuable skills.