Heading into 2021, Gold Coast boatbuilder Riviera has welcomed a record intake of new apprentices for a second consecutive year.
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A total of 41 new apprentices joined the Riviera team this week following an extensive recruitment program during the year. In comparison, Riviera welcomed 33 new apprentices this time last year. The latest intake has increased apprentices working with the 600-strong team to 89.
Riviera’s Safety and Training Manager Adam Houlahan, said more apprentices were being recruited to meet continued growth. “The apprentice program at Riviera is an important part of our commitment to developing the master craftsmen and women of the future,” said Mr Houlahan. “Each of our apprentices receives intensive training to create world-class luxury motor yachts.”
Riviera is expecting the benefits of a record apprentice recruitment over consecutive years will be felt in years to come when the recruits have achieved certified qualifications in their respective trades.
More than 300 apprentices have now graduated from the Riviera program since its inception almost 30 years ago, and many are still part of the company’s team of qualified and highly awarded craftspeople.
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“Developing skills for the future plays an important role in not only Riviera’s manufacturing growth, but more broadly in the future of the Australian-based marine industry,” said Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst.
“We have a proud history of training and enhancing the skills of our team, which has allowed us to create luxury motor yachts that are recognised the world over for their quality, luxury and engineering excellence.”
Many of the new apprentices for 2021 have been selected through Riviera’s ongoing relationship with schools across the south-east Queensland and northern NSW region.
“Last year, we expanded this area to include more schools, giving graduates an opportunity to consider a rewarding career in the marine industry,” said Houlahan.
In conjunction with their skills training, all Riviera apprentices are required to undertake the Propel program that has been introduced by the company to enhance their development.
Through Propel, apprentices are taught skills in leadership, communications, relationships and personal finance under the guidance of senior management, including Rodney Longhurst and Riviera CEO Wes Moxey.
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