East Arnhem Regional Council's Indigenous Trainee Technical Officer Jacob Pangquee is continuing to excel in his role with Council's Technical Services team, successfully completing the CASA approved Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) Pilot’s Certificate in Ipswich.
The five day training course, which included an Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate, enables Jacob to commercially operate multi-rotor aircraft, allowing him to independently assist with Council's inspections of buildings, roads, waste facilities and more.
“I am very grateful of the opportunities I’ve been given and I look forward to achieving more and starting off my career at East Arnhem Regional Council” said Jacob.
Commencing in September 2015, Jacob's traineeship has him working towards a Certificate III in Building and Construction, a position which has been made possible thanks to a $45 000 funding partnership between Council and Developing East Arnhem Limited.
A funding first for both organisations, the DEAL Programme provided $45 000 towards the traineeship, with the programme created to provide support and financial assistance to promote economic development, diversification and sustainability of indigenous and other businesses in the region, support employment and training opportunities for residents, and enhance economic wellbeing within the East Arnhem Land region.
"Jacob has been an extremely valuable addition to our Tech Services team. He has shown a strong thirst for knowledge and experience and his enthusiasm to be involved in as much as possible has been extremely encouraging to see" said Council's Director Technical Services, Shane Marshall.
Jacob will continue to be involved in a range of programs including building inspections, repairs and maintenance to building assets, and supporting projects like the CDU mosquito larvae collection and adult mosquito trapping for virus testing.
After working across all areas of the Technical Services team and completing training in ARCHICAD, the computer assisted drafting program, Jacob will focus his placement in the Building Infrastructure stream and carpentry, where he will work closely with our Technical Officer Mike Bollard commencing on some big projects in Gapwiyak.
A great initiative from both parties, the funding agreement will conclude in June 2016, with Council maintaining the position moving forward.