Disability Employment Services client, Noel, hadn’t worked since he was in his 40s more than 25 years ago. He hadn’t been able to, as he sustained a back injury working in labouring and rigging. Now at 65, he was able to return to work part-time, but he couldn’t imagine who would want to hire someone with a back injury in his 60’s.
Noel started working with the atWork Australia team in the Wollongong office in New South Wales.
“When I first met Noel, he wanted to work but he didn’t believe anyone would hire him, and the industry he previously worked in had changed so much he no longer had the required qualifications,” said his Job Coach, Gabrielle.
Noel was still interested in the industry he had previously worked in, so together they looked at Noel’s existing network leveraging his previous reputation as a loyal and hard-working employee.
He was able to reconnect with an industrial company, however, while they were interested, they didn’t have a current role for him.
Gabrielle and the atWork Australia team worked with the employer to carve out a role for Noel. They discussed with the employer how atWork Australia could support Noel to obtain whatever he needed to make it work.
The employer let the team know that Noel needed to refresh and gain some new skills for a role they had in mind that would suit Noel’s injuries and his personal requirements.
From here, atWork Australia’s partnership with Accelerated Training helped them provide short notice custom course for Noel.
“Noel has been an absolute joy and delight. Since re-entering the workforce Noel is upbeat and excited, a big change from the fearful, hesitant man we first met,” said Gabrielle.
“He was very brave to trust us with his reputation, career aspirations and his network.”
Noel is now a Gas Watcher Standby, working in the same lines he worked on as a young man. He is a valued member of his new team.
“Noel’s new boss continually provides me with rave reviews about his performance. It’s like a match made in heaven.”
“I appreciate the support from the atWork Australia team. They have made everything so easy,” said Noel.
Every year, atWork Australia help thousands of clients like Noel expand their skills and qualifications to help them gain the right job with the right employer. Call us today on 1300 080 856 or enquire online to find out how we can help you meet your career goals.
