The money is “great”, the work allows them to be creative and they get paid to learn yet according to research by not-for-profit organisation WorldSkills Australia, two thirds of regional people will not consider following in their footsteps. 

The men can not work out why.

“Maybe because people don’t know what’s involved,” James said.

The research also stated regional people lack a basic understanding of the vocational education and training (VET) sector. 

WorldSkills Australia chief executive officer, Mark Callaghan, said the research showed there was a lot to be done to highlight the importance of the VET sector in Orange to plug knowledge gaps.

“The careers that are offered through a VET pathway are integral to the ongoing growth of the local economy and keep the country competitive at an international level. 

“The majority of Orange residents don’t understand how many people they come into contact with who have studied via a VET pathway,” Mr Callaghan said.

“I’d encourage every person in Orange who has a passion but isn’t sure where to start, to head to their local TAFE or private registered training organisation and ask some questions. “These organisations offer training across a diverse range of areas, ranging from fashion to automotive engineering.”

The brothers love what they do so much that they chose to compete in the upcoming WorldSkills Australia national competition to be held in Perth in September.

After winning the regional rounds the brothers, along with apprentice electrician Peter Johnson, hope to win the national competition for a chance at the international title to be held in Brazil.