Buildskills Australia appointed respected water industry leader

BuildSkills Australia has announced the appointment of respected water industry leader George Wall to the role of National Manager of Water Sector Industry Engagement. 

BuildSkills Australia has announced the appointment of respected water industry leader George Wall to the role of National Manager of Water Sector Industry Engagement. 

The Jobs and Skills Council (JSC) was recently established under the Federal Government’s $442 million initiative. It is tasked with creating a strong, skilled workforce across the building, construction, civil, infrastructure, property and water sectors. 

BuildSkills Australia Chief Executive Officer Brett Schimming said Wall is one of the country’s most experienced leaders in the water industry and a huge asset to the whole team. 

“George brings a wealth of diverse knowledge to BuildSkills Australia. He is passionate about promoting Vocational Education and Training and skills development in the water sector,’’ Schimming said. “He has also been a strong advocate for the ongoing professional development of staff. George was also instrumental in the establishment and implementation of an operator registration scheme.’’ 

Wall began his career in 1989 as a wastewater treatment operator with Goulburn Valley Water in Victoria. He has held a variety of roles, including 18 years as Managing Director of the Water Industry Operators Association of Australia. 

He is a life member of the Water Industry Operators Association of Australia and has been the association’s Secretary-Treasurer since 1995. Wall was a long-term member of the Water Industry Reference Committee, serving as the Chair from 2019 to 2023. 

Water industry leader looking to make a difference

Wall said he is looking forward to the challenges of his new role and continuing to make a difference in the industry. 

“I have well-established connections across the water industry, and I’m keen to reach out further to get to know all key stakeholders,’’ Wall said. 

“I will be sharing BuildSkills Australia’s progress, and I want to hear the industry’s issues and concerns and help to find solutions. 

“The water industry, covering both supply and wastewater, faces many challenges, including an ageing workforce and skills shortage. 

“Supporting training to develop a highly skilled workforce is a major part of my role. I will liaise with stakeholders across Australia to find out what new training is required and whether we need to make any changes to existing qualifications. 

“Workforce planning is key. We need to establish which skills we need and where we can find the people who want to learn them. 

“I’m very keen to promote the water sector as a viable career option. When parents and school leavers are considering apprenticeships, they think plumbers, electricians and builders but not necessarily the water sector, I want to help change that. 

“The water industry follows a path from the day it rains until it reaches the customer’s tap. The supply of safe and clean water is essential to life.’’ 

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