Ben struggled with mental health challenges due to his unstable living conditions. This kept him unemployed into his thirties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Determined to overcome these barriers and regain control of his life, Ben reached out to OCTEC in Forbes. During Ben\u2019s initial meeting with Central West Regional Manager Amy, after talking together she discovered he was a motor enthusiast and was looking to work in a job in the automotive industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ben firstly worked hard on stabilising his living arrangements, and working on ways to control his addictions with medication for his anxiety and attending counselling. He also gained his driving learner\u2019s permit, taking a significant step towards independence and responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Understanding his strengths and challenges, Amy suggested Ben pursue a mature-aged (adult) apprenticeship. This is designed for those aged over 21 and above who seek to start a trade apprenticeship. These apprenticeships provide a structured learning experience, job security and the chance to earn while you learn, making them an excellent choice for those looking to change careers or re-enter the job market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They worked on creating a resume tailored for the automotive industry. Amy reached out to windscreen repair business, Butlers Windscreens, about any potential opportunities for a mature-aged apprentice windscreen fitter. This seemed like the ideal industry where Ben could learn new skills and apply to a role in working with different types of motor vehicles. Following discussions with owner Darren Butler, Ben received a work trial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite feeling nervous prior to the trial, Ben\u2019s enthusiasm for motors and eagerness to learn left a strong impression on Darren. That afternoon, Darren called Amy to offer Ben permanent employment within his family business. Remarkably, Ben became Butlers Windscreens\u2019 first employee in a decade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Amy assisted Darren in coordinating with O\u2019Brien AutoGlass to register Ben for his mature-aged apprenticeship. Understanding the challenges of integrating a new employee into a family-run business, Amy helped Darren and explained how a mature-aged apprenticeship worked and tailored an OCTEC tailored Biz Support for him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
She continued to provide weekly post-placement support, visiting the workshop to discuss the progress with Darren and Ben. During these visits, Amy observed the strong working relationship between Darren and Ben. OCTEC also helped Ben purchase suitable work clothing, especially for the colder months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Darren highlighted how Ben\u2019s fantastic attitude and work ethic made it an easy decision to bring him on board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\n“It’s unfortunate that many mature-aged job seekers face hardships due to age. When Ben approached me through Amy from OCTEC, I saw potential in him. The apprenticeship and OCTEC support were invaluable. In just two months, Ben not only earned his driver’s and forklift licenses but also enrolled in the necessary tech courses. His commitment to learning and adherence to safety protocols are commendable.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
DARREN BUTLER<\/strong>, Butlers Windscreens owner<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Ben\u2019s journey from unemployment to becoming a mature-aged apprentice windscreen fitter is nothing short of inspirational. With determination and the right support, he has overcome major challenges and gained independence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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If you live with a disability, illness, or injury and are looking for work, please feel free to reach out to your local employment specialists for assistance<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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