The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys and Tec-NQ, the home of training, education and careers in North Queensland, have created an alliance that will reinforce the importance of continuing education and skills development for young people in the region.

Tec-NQ offers school-based apprenticeships and full-time apprenticeship training and has become a Corporate Supporter of the Cowboys for 2010.

The Cowboys proactively support ongoing training and planning for life after football through a well-established development program for NRL and Toyota Cup squad members, run by Player Development Manager Kevin Marty.

“Our policy for the NYC competition is that if players don’t work, go to school or attend university, then they’re not eligible to play,” Marty says.

“This is designed to introduce our young men into the workforce and create life skills outside of rugby league.

“With the fantastic support of sponsors like Tec-NQ and other local businesses, I’m pleased to say that we have close to 100 per cent of NYC players in work or education placements for 2010.”

These placements include Cowboys Toyota Cup players Chris Faust and Chris McLean, who are both training in electrical apprenticeships with Tec-NQ and enjoying the flexibility that studying with the college allows.

By studying with Tec-NQ, students have the opportunity to be signed into a school-based apprenticeship and study an approved academic program at the same time, allowing them to start their trade and attain a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

Tec-NQ Marketing and Communications Manager Tanja Cornford is delighted to be working with the Cowboys to raise awareness of the college’s education and training options, and to highlight its role in developing and securing skills for North Queensland industry.

“Skills shortages and skills gaps represent a major challenge for the North Queensland region and present a significant barrier to the region’s continued economic growth,” Cornford says.

“Research undertaken by Commerce Queensland shows that 94 per cent of employers surveyed in Townsville were experiencing skills shortages, and Tec-NQ is working hard to bridge the gap.

“We also offer tailor-made pre-employment programs for organisations, covering skills such as workplace practices, communication, workplace health and safety, literacy and numeracy, resume writing, interview technique and tool use.”

For more information on Tec-NQ, visit www.tecnq.com.au.

Main image: Tec-NQ CEO (Acting) Tom Petterson, Toyota Cup player Chris McLean and Cowboys Player Development Manager Kevin Marty