Workforce Australia participant, Gerard, started his Certificate I in Construction with Civil Safety in Kalgoorlie to learn some new skills, and perhaps a clearer direction for his future. What he didn’t expect was that halfway through the program, he would have a brand‑new career.
Three weeks into the training, the Civil Safety manager reached out to Gerard’s Employment Mentor, Krissy, to discuss offering Gerard a job. Civil Safety were impressed with Gerard’s consistency and willingness to learn during the course and decided to offer him a casual Yard Person position.
When Krissy called Gerard with the news, he was unsure of what to expect as his background was in mining, and he had never worked in a yard based role before. He decided to continue with the training while thinking through the opportunity.
Not long after, Gerard received another job offer from a mining company. Krissy supported him through the decision making process, helping him weigh the pros and cons of each path. Together, they explored the long-term potential of the Civil Safety role, including opportunities for further training, additional certificates, and the possibility of becoming a trainer or mentor for Indigenous participants entering the program. After thinking it all through, Gerard decided to take the job with Civil Safety.
Gerard continued with his training and during one of the sessions, all the participants celebrated him when they learned he had secured employment. Gerard had already begun helping others in the program, reading questions aloud, checking answers, and offering support where he could.
Krissy continued to support him as he prepared for his first day, ensuring he had everything he needed to start strong. Two weeks into his new role, Gerard was thriving. “I love the job. It is growing, working and learning at the same time,” he said.
Civil Safety said Gerard has been contributing positively and proving to be a great asset to the team. “We’re really happy with Gerard, his attitude towards work and learning has been fantastic. He is fitting in really well with the team here in Kalgoorlie.”
The Waalitj Foundation mentors deliver the Workforce Australia program in Kalgoorlie with the aim of equipping participants like Gerard with the skills and knowledge to find meaningful employment.
Participants are offered career guidance, job placement and post-placement support, training and any necessary licensing or identification. This holistic approach ensures each individual is set up for success when entering employment.
Gerard said he is genuinely enjoying his role and is already in talking to his employer about becoming a mentor for Indigenous participants attending future training.
Gerard’s advice to other jobseekers is: “Keep showing up with positive attitude, keep moving forward and be you.”
Workforce Australia is the front door for government employment and skills services, helping Australians to find and keep a job, change jobs or create their own job, connecting employers with job seekers, and a refreshed network of providers to deliver tailored case management. Waalitj Foundation is the Workforce Australia provider for Kalgoorlie. Find out more.
