Frankston City Council in Victoria has introduced an award-winning Graduate Engineer Scheme to address skills shortages in engineers and technical staff.

The program aims to develop young engineers quickly, hold on to them and encourage experienced engineers to pass on their knowledge through a mentoring program.

The three-year program rotates graduates through different sections of the infrastructure department for six to 12 months, such as engineering projects, contract and asset management, transport planning and capital works.

Graduates can also upgrade their position through an accelerated development program.

Frankston City Council’s program was recognised at the 2008 Local Government Professionals Awards for Excellence, last week (week beginning February 11) winning the Innovative Management category.

“The Generation X’s and Y’s want to be challenged, they want to work in a dynamic environment, have a say in the management of their team and enjoy their work atmosphere. Otherwise they will walk,” Frankston’s Infrastructure Manager Ossie Martinz said.