Earlier this year, Tony walked through the doors at STEPS Aitkenvale wanting to pursue his passion.
He began studying with STEPS Education and Training, his goal was to get qualified and start a new career.
“I’ve always had a yearning to work with people with a disability, I have a nineteen-year-old son with autism myself and it’s something I’ve wanted to do.”
Tony studied a Certificate III in Individual Support and found he not only had a knack for the work, but he was able to help others with their coursework.
“I spent a fair bit of time doing my online study at home, so I would come in the training room on Thursdays and Fridays and help other students,” Tony said.
“I’d sit down and help them, and staff noticed how I was able to help others in their learning.”
The support that he offered other students really stood out to staff at STEPS.
After Tony graduated and received his qualification, he was asked if we would like to join the team at STEPS.
Tony is now a Job Readiness Trainer with STEPS Work Mates and works with people with a disability as they build skills on their journey to finding employment.
Tony said his new role has been awesome and he has never experienced such a collaborative and supportive workplace.
“The best thing about working at STEPS is the teamwork, we all work together as a team and the staff are friendly,” Tony said.
While Tony has found the role he loves, he offers advice for others who are thinking about gaining a qualification and beginning a career in the care or disability industries.
“Definitely do it, it really opens up a lot of doorways.”
“I would highly recommend this course,” he said.
“I never anticipated that it would open this door for me, and I am so happy it did.”
The STEPS Manager Luke O’Hare said the decision to bring Tony into the STEPS team was easy.
“When Tony started studying as STEPS, we all realised pretty quickly that he was an exceptional student.
“He was always helping others and brought such a positive vibe to STEPS,” Luke said.
“With his skills, motivation and passion, I wanted to him to join the STEPS team because I knew he would be such an asset and really make a difference in the lives of our participants.”
If you are interested in studying a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support, check your eligibility by contacting training@stepsgroup.com.au or call 1300 131 965.
This training is proudly funded and supported by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.
