Bridging the Gap from the UK to SA
Sammy recently moved from the UK to SA – perfect conditions, he says, for a bricky.
“It’s the driest state, which is like a money maker for me (he laughs) … and I didn’t fancy doing any more winters in Wiltshire, like 6 to 9 month cold and wet winters!” Sammy said.
Within one week of obtaining his Permanent Residency and arriving in Adelaide, Sammy was directed to MBA’s Build Connect program – the only dedicated recruitment pathway in the building and construction industry for skilled migrants.
“It paid off, I got a white card within two days and then I worked on a big project in the CBD … and then I moved on and started building some schools.”
Master Builders SA CEO Will Frogley says the quick turnaround is indicative of an industry crying out for skilled workers.
“It’s great to see Sammy filling a key gap for our industry and enjoying South Australia’s world-class lifestyle.
“Without enough skilled workers, construction work takes longer, is more expensive, and quality suffers,” Mr Frogley said.
In just a few short months since launching, Build Connect has already improved productivity by matching skilled migrants with employers.
“We have more than 120 candidates on file in occupations such as engineering, site management and trades. We vet their skills, identify any gaps and provide any required training to help get them into work as soon as possible,” Will Frogley said.
Master Builders SA members receive a dedicated newsletter, offering both vetted candidates ready for work and hosts looking for workers.
The team is also hoping to build on its recent successes by being asked by the State Government to tour England and Scotland and lure more workers for the ‘Move to South Australia’ UK Roadshow.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the Build Connect program, contact program director Melinda Maher or the team!
You can watch Sammy’s Story here
