Cobram’s CPE Construction has been named among the winners of the 67th Victorian Training Awards – recognising the state’s best apprentices, students, teachers, trainers and employers.
CPE Construction was named the Medium Employer of the Year at the virtual gala night on October 16.
The business has used training as a central pillar of its growth from a company that built farm-style sheds to one that works on multi-million-dollar construction projects right across Victoria and southern NSW.
“Training and development of our team is always front of mind and to be recognised for the work we do is an added bonus and something we are very proud of,” CPE Construction human resources manager Amanda Herezo said.
Despite the challenges of COVID-19, the business harnessed the opportunity for staff to pursue training and upskilling, with 20 per cent of staff enrolled in accredited training at GOTAFE.
This includes seven apprentices who are studying a Certificate III in either Plumbing or Steel Fabrication, and one HR manager who is completing the double Advanced Diploma of Leadership, Management and Human Resources.
“Our robust training and development program is not an added extra but something that is embedded in our day-to-day activities and captured in each individual employees development plan,” Ms Herezo said.
“Maintaining a skilled and trained workforce has allowed us to remain competitive in the industry.
“Although we are a regional construction company, through training our team and having the resources required we are able to work on and project manage large metro government construction projects.”
The award winners represent all parts of metropolitan and regional Victoria.
This year’s Victorian Training Awards received the highest number of nominations in more than a decade.
The event is supported by principal partner Apprenticeship Employment Network and the Global Apprenticeship Network.
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the Victorian Training Awards were a great acknowledgement of a world-class industry.
“Congratulations to CPE Construction for their recognition at this year’s Victorian Training Awards – their contribution to upskilling their workforce and to the community is incredible,” Ms Symes said.