📢 Sponsored

Are you ready to launch your career in defence?

You can do it here in the Murraylands by starting a mechanical engineering apprenticeship with Kennewell CNC Machining.

Peri Strathearn

26 Nov 2025 — 3 min read

This could be you in a few years. Are you game? Photo: Nicholas Wrankmore/Department of Defence.

This sponsored story is brought to you by Kennewell.

Are you dreaming of a career in defence, but don’t know where to start?

You could start right here in the Murraylands.

Murray Bridge firm Kennewell CNC Machining is looking to hire two mechanical engineering apprentices as part of the Shipbuilding Employment Pathways initiative.

Successful applicants will earn while they learn through a four-year apprenticeship in a critical trade, with an employer working at the forefront of the defence industry.

As an apprentice, you won’t just be learning – you’ll be building the future of Australia’s defence, and gaining hands-on skills that are in high demand.

Your work placement will be at Kennewell, where you will grow into one of two roles:

A machinist will operate precision manufacturing machines like lathes, mills and robots
A maintenance fitter and turner will look after the cutting-edge machines at Kennewell’s workshop, as well as gaining skills in welding and other areas

The qualification you will earn is a Certificate III in Mechanical Engineering, with a fitter and machinist focus, through the Peer Group Training Organisation in western Adelaide.

You’ll be mentored and supported every step of the way.

More than 90 per cent of Peer students complete their apprenticeships, and 98% of graduates secure employment in their chosen field.

The program’s aim will be to prepare you for a career in Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine and naval shipbuilding industries.

Rear Admiral David Mann AM and Australia's defence industry want you. Photo: Australian Submarine Agency.

Who we’re looking for

You are:

Ready to start your career journey in a high-impact industry
A problem solver who is passionate about building a long-term career in defence
Excited about learning and growing throughout a four-year apprenticeship

You must be aged 17 or older on the day you start, an Australian citizen, have a current driver’s licence, and be able to obtain a baseline security clearance and pass medical drug and alcohol testing.

Why you’ll love an apprenticeship

You will:

Learn by doing, completing hands-on training and gaining real-world experience alongside industry leaders
Earn competitive wages while you learn, and gain benefits like annual leave and superannuation
Gain nationally recognised qualifications that will open doors into one of the world’s most innovative industries

Why choose Peer and Kennewell?

You will get:

Dedicated mentors guiding you every step of the way
Access to professionals across the defence industry who will help you grow and thrive
Regular check-ins to make sure you’re on track and feeling confident

How to apply

Are you ready to take your future into your own hands?

Apply now: Visit peer.com.au/shipbuilding-employment-pathways-sep.
More information about Kennewell: Call 8532 4977, email brett@kennewell.com or visit the workshop at 8 Sturt Reserve Road, Murray Bridge between 8am and 4pm on weekdays.
Read more: Defence sector work adds one more string to Kennewell’s bow

Advertising to more than 20,000 highly engaged locals can do wonders for your business. Call Jane Intini on 0418 835 768 or email jane@murraybridge.news.