atWork Australia clients from the Ipswich area in Queensland, were invited to attend atWork Australia’s First Steps to Success event, held on August 7. At the event, Registered Training Organisations and employers looking to hire with diversity were on hand to meet with Disability Employment Services clients. Many clients were looking to change career direction after injury, or to best support their health. This event gave them the opportunity to learn more about the in-demand industries in the region and how they could be flexible and supportive of their needs.
The training providers and employers were relevant to the local labour market needs in the area, helping clients understand where many of the opportunities are and the in-demand industries.
Trevor from Challenge Employment & Training who attended the event said he ‘was happy to contribute to changing lives’ and that he wanted to give more opportunities to those living with a disability.
Many of the training providers had work experience and placements at the end of the training providing that much needed yet often elusive experience that goes hand in hand with training.
Aaron from the civil construction training team said they wanted to provide these opportunities to people living with disability as the flexible nature of the work might suit their needs.
“We have a huge diverse workforce already and believe in hiring from the full talent pool of people. The traffic control courses and placements we offer can provide a first step for clients who have an interest in civil construction,” said Aaron from Civil Construction.
Clients in attendance shared that their health barriers meant they needed to look at new careers and they were not sure what options were available. This event gave them the opportunity to see what was on offer in the region and clearly outline what was required for each role , in one easy location.
A cleaning and gardening employer, who attended shared that they had recently trialed a client from atWork Australia who was a great fit for their organisation. With this in mind they sought out to attend this event with the goal of hopefully meeting more atWork Australia clients to see if any roles might be suitable for them. They offer a range of cleaning and gardening roles, and the flexible hours are often suitable to the needs of many of our clients.
As clients entered the event, the local atWork Australia team had their resumes printed and on hand for the clients to provide to the employers and training organisations.
At the end of the event, one client had an interview locked in, while others are waiting on call backs for more information about courses. Others learned about the skills and qualifications needed for roles, which they will now work towards with their Job Coaches.
The team look forward to their next event, and connecting more people and business so both can thrive.
Pictured: Aaron (right) and his colleague from Civil Construction Training attending the First Steps to Success event
