Jesse is building his carpentry future in Charleville

Carpentry apprentice Jesse pictured with his employers Shaun Capewell (left) and Nik Murphy (right) of Murphy and Capewell Construction.

After leaving school, he saw vocational training as a way to get started in a trade and work towards becoming a qualified carpenter.

As Jesse is undertaking a priority apprenticeship qualification, he is also eligible to have his training fees fully covered through the Queensland Government's Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s program.

Now six months into his training with TAFE Queensland and about a year and a half into his employment, Jesse says the experience has exceeded his expectations.

"It's been unreal," he said.

Jesse's apprenticeship has already given him exposure to a diverse range of construction projects across the region, from school renovations to new home builds.

"We've completed a couple renovations at schools as well as built new roofs and sheds, and now we've started a brand-new house," he said.

During a home construction project, Jesse is gaining valuable hands-on experience in framing and roof construction.

"From last week we've been putting up frames and trusses, so after I arrive on site, I get set up and start nailing frames and trusses together," he said.

This combination of practical workplace learning and online and in-person training is helping Jesse develop the skills required to become a qualified tradesperson.

TAFE Queensland offers flexible training options designed to meet the needs of apprentices and employers in regional and remote communities like Charleville.

Training can be delivered through workplace visits, day release, online learning, block training, and other flexible models that make it easier for apprentices to learn while they work.

For Jesse, the support he receives through TAFE Queensland's flexible workplace-based training delivery in Charleville has been instrumental in building both his technical knowledge and confidence on site.

"It helps me get through all my theory and helps me with comprehending what I've got to do on the job site and how to calculate and work things out for specific jobs," he said.

Jesse also credits his teacher, Jonathan Millroy, for helping him navigate the challenges of apprenticeship training.

"Jono's been awesome. He explains things in a way that's easy to understand and he's always there to help if you get stuck," Jesse said.

He said having access to support when needed makes a significant difference.

"The online learning can be a bit challenging, but when you've got a teacher there to support you, it makes it easier to get through," he explained.

One of the most rewarding parts of Jesse's apprenticeship has been seeing completed projects and knowing he played a role in creating them.

"You get to work on sites and then go back a couple of months later and just think to yourself, 'I built that'," he said.

It's this sense of achievement that continues to motivate him as he progresses through his apprenticeship and develops the skills needed for a long-term career in the industry.

For other young people in the region considering a trade career, Jesse's advice is simple.

"Get in early, get it done while you're young, and it's not that hard to get through TAFE."