A powerful collaboration between TAFE SA and iconic Australian brand R.M.Williams is successfully tackling a skills shortage while creating a direct pipeline for local fashion graduates into manufacturing careers.
From Classroom to Craftsmanship
For 25-year-old Lachlan McNeill, a TAFE SA fashion design graduate, walking into an R.M.Williams store is a source of immense pride. He doesn't just see products; he sees his own handiwork on the shelves.
"When I actually saw the products on the shelf with price tags on it … I felt very proud," Mr McNeill said. "I actually made that duffel bag and I helped make that laptop case."
He describes his role sewing bags for the legendary boot and apparel maker as more than just a job, but a passion. "This is more than a job to me because it’s something that I’m passionate about – I come to work and I enjoy what I’m doing," he explained, highlighting the ongoing opportunities within the iconic Australian company.
Preserving a Critical Skill for the Future
This employment success story is the direct result of a strategic partnership where TAFE SA fashion students are trained to use industrial sewing machines. According to R.M.Williams senior team leader in craft (bags), Karin Jacka, this skill was in danger of being lost.
"We don’t want to lose these (industrial sewing) skills … but, potentially, we could lose the skills as (industrial sewing machinists) are getting older and retiring," Ms Jacka stated.
She emphasised the critical timing of the initiative, coinciding with R.M.Williams' expansion of its 550-strong workforce. "This partnership between R.M.Williams and TAFE is really important. The opportunities now, with the (R.M.Williams) expansion, are going to be amazing," she added.
Securing Long-Term Careers in Australian Manufacturing
Ms Jacka, who began her career at the former Levi's factory in Elizabeth, finds deep reward in working for a home-grown business and fostering the next generation of talent.
"It’s such a great feeling knowing that I’m going to have a job (at R.M.Williams) for many years and so are these young ones coming up," she said, referring to the graduates emerging from the TAFE SA program.
This partnership not only ensures the continuation of traditional craftsmanship but also solidifies a future for Australian manufacturing, creating tangible career paths for skilled graduates right here in Adelaide.
