While constructing an underground motorway in Sydney, CPB Contractors, as part of Transport for NSW’s M6 Stage 1 project, is inspiring the next generation of industry professionals through its project-led school engagement program.
The programs aim to empower and inspire students from diverse backgrounds by showcasing the wide range of career opportunities within the construction sector.
CPB Contractors Stakeholder & Community Relations Advisor Elizabeth Kochergin, currently working on the M6 Stage 1 Project, shares that the programs have been tailored to the ages and interests of its participants.
“We introduce students to different aspects of major construction projects, from engineering to environment, quality to safety, and everything in between”, says Natasha.
To date, the M6 Stage 1 project has reached over 390 students from various local schools through a range of site and classroom-based school engagement, including:
Indigenous Cultural Awareness School Engagement workshops
Combining cultural understanding and environmental awareness, these classroom-based workshops are focused on educating students about traditional Indigenous tools and local endangered species and developing a greater understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and cultures.
Site tours
Providing hands-on exposure to the realities of construction projects, these tours typically include a safety induction, a meet and greet with project staff and, when possible, a tour into the under-construction tunnels. Over 52 students have already participated in these informative site visits.
Career sessions
Designed to offer honest insights and career guidance, these highly regarded sessions feature presentations from project employees. With six sessions held to date, the presentations involve M6 Stage 1 project employees taking students through their career trajectories, including what subjects they studied at school and what life and career lessons they have learned along the way.
CPB Contractors is currently delivering the M6 Stage 1 in a joint venture with UGL and Ghella. The project includes the delivery of an underground motorway connection between President Ave, Kogarah, and the M8, mainline tunnels, exit/entry ramps, and shared cycle and pedestrian pathways.