Most people will change career direction three times during their working lives.
Maribyrnong resident Jason Evangelidis has put new life into his career by returning to university to study a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician at Victoria University's Sunshine Campus.
Jason was already a fully qualified refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic who installed commercial air conditioning units to protect data centres. However, after being in the workforce for some years, he realised he had the potential for a different future career if he upgraded his skills.
Jason said: "When you enter the workforce, you are exposed to different occupations and realise there are many more opportunities and directions out there.
"I was looking at the skills I need to run my own business. Being a qualified refrigeration technician and sparkie opens up various options for upskilling. It also means that if I am running my own business and supervising staff I will understand what they are doing and be able to offer advice.
"Coming back to school has been less challenging than I anticipated. Strong support from teachers has been helpful in getting me back into the swing of studying again," Jason said.
"We have a number of students who are looking for a different direction," said electrical teacher Paul Galea who also completed a mid-life second qualification. "I think there is a higher social recognition on the value of vocational education especially as the skills shortage increasingly bites on salary, and employment rates for trades continue to rise."
Adult Learning Week is 1-8 September.
Media contact:
Christine White,
Public Affairs Unit, Victoria University,
9919 4322; 0434 602884; media@vu.edu.au
