“Show Up Every Day”: How Consep’s Young Starters program is building careers – and transforming business culture.  

Rethinking recruitment

Established in 1990, Consep provides engineering solutions to the mining, construction, water, and wastewater industries across NSW and WA. But by 2022, when they joined the Employer Innovation Lab, traditional hiring methods were no longer attracting young people, and those who did come on board often struggled in the demanding work environment. The business was keen to bring more young people and women into their workforce. 

With support from the SVA Employment team, Consep designed a program that focused on potential over prior experience. The only requirement? Show up every day—Consep would handle the rest. 

Partnering with community organisations like OCTEC, Evolve Housing, and Headspace, they reached out to young people who might not have otherwise considered a career in engineering. 

The Young Starters program launched with an open day, inviting job seekers and their families to explore the business, meet the team, and learn about available opportunities. Originally designed for six trainees, the overwhelming interest led to ten participants joining the first cohort. 

 [The Young Starters Program] is one of the most profound things I have achieved in my career… it touched me more than anything I have done, watching them overcome challenges.” Grant Stewart • Founding CEO Consep

A workplace-wide commitment

Over six months, Young Starters rotated through different areas of the business, gaining hands-on experience in engineering, fabrication, logistics, administration, and more. This was about more than skills—it was about mentorship, support, and connection. 

To set participants up for success, Consep made key changes: 

• Structured learning and mentoring to build confidence.  

• Dedicated mentors while encouraging broader staff involvement.  

• Training for employees to better support and guide young workers. 

The impact was immediate. The Young Starters thrived, impressing colleagues with their work ethic, enthusiasm, and adaptability. 

But what truly stood out was the cultural shift within the company. It wasn’t just the young people who grew; the program lifted the whole business. As a result, it is being scaled up as a permanent fixture across the business. 

Key takeaways for employers

What’s next

By the end of the program: 

• Five participants secured permanent roles at Consep, with another supported into a role in their preferred industry. 

• All six gained First Aid certificates, five obtained their White Card and Forklift licence, and two earned their Learner’s Permit—critical milestones for their careers. 

Consep introduced a $10,000 novated lease option and funded driving lessons to help Young Starters gain independence. 

The second round of the Young Starter pilot resulted in seven Young Starters graduating from the program with five offered permanent roles and two others deciding to pursue further education. Perhaps the biggest outcome is that the Young Starters program is now business as usual. Consep has committed to running the program permanently—not just in Australia, but in their Canadian operations as well. The goal is to double their business in five years, and for Young Starters to be a big part of that journey.