At Frontline Human Resources, we know that the final year of an apprenticeship can be equal parts exciting and uncertain. For many apprentices, the question isn’t just “when will I be qualified?”—it’s “what happens after I’m qualified?”

That’s exactly why we’ve launched Training2Tradie, a practical, forward-looking initiative tailored specifically to 4th year apprentices who are approaching the end of their apprenticeship.

We recently had the opportunity to present the program at the 2025 Melbourne Careers Expo, where it struck a chord with apprentices, educators, and employers alike.

Supporting the Transition from Apprentice to Tradesperson

Training 2 Tradie was created in response to a simple but important gap. While much focus is (rightly) placed on getting apprentices to the finish line, not enough support exists to help them take the next step—into employment, business ownership, or further development within their trade.

This program helps apprentices explore their options, identify any remaining skill gaps, and prepare for life after qualification—whatever that may look like for them. It’s not about adding more pressure in their final year; it’s about offering structure, clarity, and choice.

What the Program Covers

During our presentation at the Melbourne Career Expo, we walked through the core elements of Training2Tradie, including:

  • Career planning sessions that help apprentices think long-term—whether it’s staying with their current host, exploring new sectors, or pursuing dual trade qualifications.
  • Skills mapping workshops designed to uncover any licensing, compliance, or soft skill gaps that may need attention before entering the job market independently.
  • Business-readiness guidance for those considering subcontracting or launching their own operation, including advice on setting up ABNs, understanding tax obligations, and quoting work.
  • Mentoring and peer insight, giving apprentices the chance to hear directly from qualified tradespeople who’ve been in their shoes and made successful transitions.

Real Interest, Real Impact

The feedback at the Expo was both encouraging and validating.

  • Apprentices appreciated the chance to have an honest conversation about what’s next—and how to get there.
  • Employers saw value in preparing apprentices not just for the job, but for the broader responsibilities that come with being a qualified tradie.
  • Educators and careers advisors expressed interest in integrating the program’s framework into their own end-of-training transition plans.

It reinforced for us that this kind of practical, future-focused support is not just welcome—it’s necessary.

More Than Just a Program

Training2Tradie isn’t a tick-box exercise. It’s part of a broader commitment to setting our apprentices up for long-term success—not just during their time with us, but well beyond it.

As one of Victoria’s largest GTO employers of electrical apprentices, and with a growing national footprint across engineering, mechanical, and automotive trades, we see it as our responsibility to lead on initiatives like this. It’s about raising the bar on how we support our people—not only as workers, but as professionals.

What’s Next?

The program is currently in pilot phase in Victoria, with plans to expand nationally throughout FY25/26. Over time, it will be integrated into our broader end-of-apprenticeship review process, becoming a core part of how we prepare 4th year apprentices for life after their trade certificate.

We’re inviting industry partners, host employers, and training organisations to come on the journey with us. Because when we invest in people—not just placements—we help build a stronger, more capable workforce for the future.

For more information about Training2Tradie, get in touch with our GTO team at [email protected].

Let’s do more than train workers. Let’s launch careers!