Getting your first job can do a lot for your confidence as 18 year Ethal Dodd knows.
After leaving school two years ago the former Bundamba High School student spent hundreds of hours searching for a job without luck.
In May this year Ethal took part in an exciting new program BUSY At Work is delivering with Careers Australia Training and was able to land himself a casual job as a sorter with building products maker, James Hardie at Carole Park.
BUSY At Work Program Coordinator for Hit the Road, Robyn Donnelly said the five week program was designed to help young job seekers aged between 15 and 24 gain a start in the transport and logistics industry. The program is part of the Queensland Government funded initiative, Skilling Queenslanders for Work Community Work Skills Program.
“The program features a mixture of classroom based training and hands on activities. BUSY are delivering the one-on-one mentoring and life skill development presentations to ensure the participants are job ready while Careers Australia Training are delivering the accredited training part of the program.”
“Its a very practical hands-on course with the participants able to learn about packing, loading and delivering of goods. As well they receive training with interviewing skills, how to update their resumes and on-the-job placement,” Ms Donnelly said.
Robyn said Ethal excelled throughout the program.
“Prior to starting the program Ethal had spent a lot of time and effort searching for work without success. We were able to help him with his presentation skills and with his resume and this helped improve his confidence greatly.”
“Throughout the program Ethal showed great determination and commitment turning up early for class and not missing a day. He proved to be an excellent student and we are delighted that he has gone on to secure work in a field he enjoys,” Ms Donnelly added.
Ethal said he was very pleased to be able to complete his Certificate II in Logistics and is looking forward to gaining his Medium Rigid (MR) truck licence in the next couple of years once he gains his open licence.
He is already setting his goals high and hopeful that a full time permanent role comes up in the near future.
“I am keen to buy a car and am considering studying for a Certificate III in Logistics if it helps further my career,” Ethal said.
Ethal said was grateful for the support provided by BUSY At Works Program Coordinator for Hit the Road, Robyn Donnelly.
“Robyn spent a lot of time with me helping me to search jobs on line and ensuring my resume was up to date.”
“When I went for the interview I had a lot more confidence and was able to put my best foot forward,” Ethal added.
Robyn said they were currently running the sixth group of participants through Hit the Road program which had been running since last November last year.
“Weve had great success with the program with nearly 100% of participants completing the program with most getting a start in the transport and logistics industry. Its is a great way for young Indigenous and disadvantaged job seekers to improve their employability and gain a start in an expanding industry.” Mrs Donnelly said.
BUSY At Work CEO, Paul Miles said BUSY was pleased to be helping young job seekers improve their employability skills and potentially gain a start in the transport and logistics industry.
“We know how important it is for young job seekers to take the first step to gaining employment. With the support of The Hit the Road program we can help young people overcome challenges and set them on a career pathway for the future,” Mr Miles said.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
0438 173 960 leanne.macnamara@busyatwork.com.au
