Our Sales & Operations Assistant, Gabe Preston, recently had the opportunity to speak to students at The King’s School, Sydney about his career journey in the construction industry.
The interested audience included a cohort of 180 VET students actively pursuing opportunities offered by the King’s School to build and expand their trade skills. And there has never been more of a demand for skilled workers, with the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business projecting the need for an additional 44,000 workers to meet the forecasted 2.4% growth of the construction industry this year.
In his presentation, Gabe offered key lessons he had learnt from his diverse work experiences. From starting as an apprentice mechanic, to his time as a forklift operator, boat detailer, landscaper, and now Sales & Operations Assistant with SuperAccess™, Gabe reflected that he’d built important skills along the way that were transferrable within the sector:
“I tried to stress the importance of taking every opportunity you’re presented with when you’re first entering the industry,” said Gabe. “Even if you ultimately discover it’s not the right fit, you’ll have developed skills that will be of use in the next position. From expanding your professional network, to becoming more familiar with the ins and outs of the industry, the experience will end up serving you as you continue your journey.”
Gabe also encouraged the students not to be afraid of trying new things, that real growth and opportunities can come when we step out of our comfort zone. “I think it’s important to always be open to learning something new, to pivot and explore different roles in a business. You don’t know what opportunities might present themselves as a result,” said Gabe.
At the presentation’s end, the students were presented with one such opportunity: the possibility of gaining work experience. Students were quick to snap up the opportunity and will spend a week getting an inside perspective on the world of specialised equipment hire.
“We’re excited to peel back the curtain and provide students with a better understanding of what day-to-day operations are like, and to demonstrate the great versatility and adaptability that can be offered by a career in the construction sector,” said Gabe.
To learn more about SuperAccess™, call our experienced team on 1800 297 297 or you can contact us through our website.