iConnect is a dynamic program designed to bridge the gap between academic talent and industry needs within the community. We facilitate meaningful connections between students and businesses, fostering innovation and driving career opportunities. iConnect aims to provide students with practical experience and industry insights, while offering businesses access to a pool of talented and motivated individuals.
Why
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, connecting academia and industry is more crucial than ever. iConnect addresses this need by:
Providing students with real-world experience outside the classroom.
Offering businesses access to fresh perspectives and talent.
Driving innovation through collaboration.
Facilitating career growth and development.
What
Apprenticeships: Structured programs providing students with hands-on experience.
Mentorships: Guidance from industry professionals.
Workshops: Skill-building sessions focused on industry-relevant topics.
Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with industry leaders.
Project Collaborations: Joint projects between students and businesses.
Career Contacts: Connecting students with potential employers.
How
iConnect utilises a streamlined process to connect students and businesses:
Registration: Students and businesses register for the program.
Matching: Participants are matched based on skills, interests, and needs.
Engagement: Facilitate interaction between participants.
Feedback: Gather feedback to ensure continuous improvement.
Resualts
iConnect delivers tangible results for both students and businesses:
Students: Enhanced skills, increased employability, and expanded professional networks.
Businesses: Access to top talent, innovative solutions, and a stronger talent pipeline.
Industry Focus Area's
iBuild - Construction, Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrics, Glazier
iCare - Health, Aged Care, Nursing, Allied Health, Youth support work, NDIS support work
iCreate - Arts, Culture, Performing Arts, Music, Film, Signwriting
iDesign - Architecture, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Publishing
iEngage - Mechanical Engineering, Boilermaking, Assembly, Engineering, Robotics
iFarm - Agriculture, Horticulture, Farming, Land Management, Agronomy
iFinance - Accounting, Finance, Banking
IFly - Civil Aviation, Aircraft Engineering, Ground Crew, Flight Attendance
iLaw - Legal, Justice, Criminology, Legal Support Administration
iMarine - Marine Science, Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Conservation
iMedia - PR, Marketing, Journalism, Digital Media, Signwriting, Radio, Television
iProtect - Emergency and Protective Services, Fire and Rescue, Defence, Security
iSpark - Electrical, Civil Engineering, Diesel Fitting, Mechanical Engineering
iSTEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Data Analytics
iTech - IT, Cybersecurity, Software Development
If interested, please contact: Leisa Toombs - Email: manager@bla.org.au, Phone: 0431 022 249
The iEngage Program was developed in partnership with the Cairns Manufacturing Hub to provide students with real-world insight into the manufacturing industry.
Designed for secondary school students, the program offers the opportunity to visit local worksites and experience firsthand what a typical day in manufacturing looks like. Through these onsite visits, students can ask questions, explore career pathways, and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse opportunities available within the industry.
Building on the success of iEngage, the Business Liaison Association (BLA) and the Cairns Manufacturing Hub have continued to collaborate to expand the program, engaging a broader range of manufacturing businesses across the region. These industry partners are committed to inspiring the next generation and addressing workforce needs by encouraging students to consider apprenticeships and traineeships within the sector.
Participating schools benefit from direct exposure to workplace practices, innovation, and emerging technologies—insights that can be taken back into the classroom to enhance learning outcomes.
The Business Liaison Association has a strong track record of coordinating successful student onsite visits in collaboration with local industry, and the continued support of the Cairns Manufacturing Hub has been instrumental in growing the iEngage Program.
