Easter BBQ & Industry Connect Event

Orange College recently hosted a vibrant and interactive BBQ & Industry Connect event at its Melbourne campus, offering students, tradespeople, and industry professionals a chance to connect, learn, and explore exciting career pathways—all while enjoying a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

The event officially kicked off at 11:30 am, starting with an impressive display of current carpentry student projects. These showcases gave attendees a glimpse into the hands-on, practical training that defines Orange College’s approach to education in trades and construction. It was a proud moment for both students and trainers, highlighting the skills being developed across the college’s programs.

Soon after, Lana from Bunnings Trade Team, took the stage to introduce the PowerPass program, a membership that provides access to exclusive discounts on tools and materials, invitations to industry events, and a direct link to one of Australia’s most recognized hardware brands. It was a popular topic of discussion throughout the day.

Next, Carpentry Australia presented the benefits of joining their national industry association. Their talk focused on how student membership can unlock valuable resources like networking opportunities, access to project showcases, professional recognition, and tools to help young tradespeople build strong portfolios and advance in their careers.

The middle part of the day featured a series of career workshops, kicking off with the Employability Skills Workshop. Students received expert guidance on identifying transferable skills, preparing for interviews, and understanding what employers are looking for in the trades industry. The Resume Writing Workshop that followed was equally well-received, offering practical advice on structuring CVs, using industry keywords, and standing out to potential employers.

Throughout the event, the energy stayed high thanks to Orange College’s amazing trainers, who kept the BBQ going all day. The smell of grilled food created a lively, social atmosphere, encouraging informal chats between students and industry guests—a great way to build connections beyond the classroom.

In the second half of the event, Milwaukee Tools showcased a range of professional-grade tools used on worksites across Australia. From power tools to storage solutions, students were able to explore the kind of equipment they’ll be working with in real-world environments.

Another highlight was the talk by Harris, owner of Study First Group Trade, who shared valuable insights on how trade qualifications can support international students seeking migration opportunities and permanent residency in Australia. His talk was a strong reminder of the long-term career and lifestyle possibilities that vocational training can offer.

As part of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, we were especially proud to align the Orange College brand with the Women in Trade campaign, and we couldn’t have asked for more inspiring advocates than the SheForce members who represented the organisation at our event. Celebrating the growing presence and impact of women in traditionally male-dominated industries. We handed out free pink high-vis vests with the empowering motto: “Women feeling empowered at OC!” This initiative sparked an inspiring visual across the campus—a vibrant sea of pink that made women stand out and feel seen. It wasn’t just about the color; it was about visibility, recognition, and celebration. The campaign aimed to encourage more women to pursue careers in trades and remind everyone that empowerment and representation matter.

Among our guests were representatives from Builders Registration, FigTek, and RTO Works, whose presence at the BBQ was greatly appreciated. We’re thankful for their valuable insights and for engaging in meaningful discussions around industry collaboration.

The day ended on a high note with lucky draws—several students walked away with exciting prizes, adding an extra touch of fun to the event. Finally, Orange College CEO Aman delivered closing remarks, thanking all students, vendors, and staff for their participation. He emphasized the importance of events like these in helping students build confidence, industry connections, and a clearer vision for their future careers.

Overall, the BBQ & Industry Connect event was a major success, reflecting Orange College’s ongoing commitment to providing practical, industry-linked education to both domestic and international students. It wasn’t just a fun day out—it was a day that opened doors.