Ask Jacob and he will tell you - it is because of the work of the VTEC team that Jacob is where he is today.
‘Professionally - they have helped me achieve my first 9-5 full time employment in an administrative role. They prepared me for what I could expect in the workforce and assisted me with higher education. But personally - they have shaped the person I am today.’
Five years ago, a bright, industrious young man was eager to expand his horizons - but he had no idea where to start.
He wasn’t sure how a resume should be laid out - or what to include. He didn’t know what to expect in an interview. He didn’t have industry connections to call upon.
VTEC helped Jacob get in touch with local employers looking for workers - ultimately pointing him in the direction of working with REDI.E - who knew he was worth holding on to!
‘VTEC helped me find the opportunities, when I didn’t know where to look. And when those opportunities were in Dubbo, they sought to find the best way I could get there from Wellington. So they would help me with bus timetables and even helped with driving courses, so I could drive myself there.’
While completing his traineeship for the Certificate II in Business through REDI.E, Jacob began his professional career as a Student Administration Officer for REDI.E. Following this, he was awarded Young Indigenous Learner of the Year in 2016.
After two years, he was given a Higher Duties Contract as an RTO Compliance Officer, where he organised government contracts, oversaw compliance management, managed budgets and finance - and travelled around NSW working with students.
Just under a year later, he was given the role of Information Technology and Communications Officer, providing IT support for the entire organisation working across 26 sites across the state.
Then in July 2018, after REDI.E recognised his unique skills in management and networking, he was promoted to Executive Assistant to the CEO. He now works directly with Senior Management and the Board of Directors to help implement company strategic planning processes, while liaisons with key stakeholders and government bodies.
All of these achievements are through Jacob’s own success - all he needed was the kick start into his career.
‘At present, I am looking to do an Undergraduate Degree in Leadership and Management - or Business Administration, through UTS. REDI.E has helped me with finding my lineage for my aboriginality, suggested which universities to look at and the grants available for young indigeous people.’