At W&S Plastics, Australian Made Week is a time to reflect not only on the importance of producing quality products locally but also on the role manufacturing plays in creating meaningful, long-term careers. Supporting the next generation of skilled workers is central to our mission—and two of our current apprentices, Foday and Nick, are living proof of that commitment.
Both are building their futures through hands-on roles at W&S Plastics while completing formal training through TAFE. The combination of practical experience and learning is a dual approach that is necessary for today’s advanced manufacturing.
Foday joined the business straight from school. He was keen to enter the workforce and, after a three-day trial, he knew the role at W&S Plastics was the right fit. Now in his second year as a die-setting apprentice, Foday is learning how modern manufacturing works—from selecting the right tools to ensuring precision in every production run.
Nick had been working across the road when he noticed the activity at W&S Plastics and decided to approach the company directly. After a meeting with the maintenance manager and touring the facility, he was offered an apprenticeship in Fitting and Turning. Already a qualified mechanic, Nick now applies his skills as part of the maintenance crew, working across the site to keep critical equipment running smoothly and safely.
Unexpected Beginnings, Fulfilling Work
Neither Foday nor Nick set out to build a career in plastics manufacturing, but both have found themselves thriving in roles that challenge, engage, and surprise them. “It’s not what I pictured myself doing,” Foday admits, “but I actually really like it. It’s not like other jobs, and that’s exactly what appeals to me.”
What surprised Nick most wasn’t just the nature of the work, but the sheer scale of the operation. “There’s a lot to manage,” Nick points out. “We’ve got heavy machinery running across the site, and this is the biggest factory I’ve worked in.”
As part of the maintenance team, Nick plays a key role in keeping production on track. “We’re responsible for more than 50 machines across different parts of the facility. If even a few of them aren’t performing properly, you’ve got to think fast and get them sorted. It’s full-on, but that’s what makes it satisfying.”
Robotics
Robotics have transformed working practices in the global manufacturing industry. Nick’s maintenance crew at W&S Plastics learn from a range of different operations manuals how to fix the robotics if there is a problem with the machines. However, sometimes there are no manual or robotics technicians to consult, and then, says Nick, it’s a case of “Just pull it apart and find out for yourself”.
Foday is learning useful information at TAFE about safety and other workplace issues but looks forward to the course covering more about the machinery that die setters need to master.
High Standards, Clean Environments, and Local Pride
Through their apprenticeships at W&S Plastics, both Foday and Nick have developed a deeper appreciation for the precision and discipline required in Australian manufacturing—especially when it comes to quality control.
Foday’s experience working on products has revealed just how rigorous the standards are. “We take really good care,” he says. For Nick, the company’s attention to detail has been equally eye-opening. “The quality here is really high,” says Nick. “Everything gets checked properly. Even the smallest defect means the part is rejected or reprocessed. If it doesn’t meet the standard, it’s not going out the door.”
The factory’s level of quality also reinforces Nick’s personal commitment to buying local. “Working here has made me more aware of what it means to support Australian Made,” he says. “Sure, you still need to import some things. But if I can buy something made in Australia, then 100 percent that’s where I want my money to go.”
The Value of a Career in Manufacturing
For Nick, one of the most rewarding aspects of his role is the chance to continually improve how things are done. “I like to look at different ways of doing things,” he explains. “If I do a job one way, I always reflect on how I could do it better or faster next time—even if that means designing a new part from scratch.”
That mindset—problem-solving, refinement, and innovation—is at the heart of modern manufacturing. And for Nick, it’s paired with a lifestyle that offers balance. “The flexibility with shifts is great. Especially during daylight savings, you can finish early and still have the rest of the day to yourself.” He also values the team environment. “You build good relationships. I get along with everyone here.”
Nick encourages more young Australians to consider a career in manufacturing. “We need more young people in it,” he says. But he also highlights the need for adaptability. “If you can’t keep up with a fast-paced industry, then this probably isn’t the path for you. You have to be ready to move with it.”
Foday believes manufacturing is a solid option for school leavers—even those unfamiliar with the field. “I don’t think anyone else from our school has gone into plastics, but it’s actually pretty easy to get started in the industry,” he says.
At W&S Plastics, we’re proud to support emerging talent. We believe apprenticeships are not just a way to learn a trade—they’re a gateway to a meaningful and rewarding career in Australian manufacturing.
