School's not for me...
At FCCPP, we embrace the philosophy that "everyone's journey is different" and that sometimes it's a team effort that delivers the most rewarding wins.
Dylan's Story
Mention "school" to Dylan, a bright and mischievous17-year-old from Hervey Bay, and he can't help but look a little sheepish.
"School’s not for me. I mostly go to see my friends. I don’t like sitting at a desk and reading through schoolwork," he admits.
So, it wasn’t surprising that university didn’t seem like the right path for Dylan. But he was certain about one thing—he didn’t just want "a job." He wanted a career with opportunities that would open doors and help him build a solid future.
It was at this year’s Fraser Coast Industry and Careers Showcase where Dylan crossed paths with Kirsty, Project Officer of Fraser Coast Career Pathways. After a friendly chat about the career pathways available locally, Kirsty assured Dylan she'd stay in touch.
“I love woodworking and talked to Kirsty about maybe getting into the building industry,” Dylan recalls.
Armed with her extensive apprenticeship knowledge and local industry contacts, Kirsty made a few phone calls and identified several leads for Dylan to explore. But when she asked him, “Have you considered cabinet making?” This was Dylan's light bulb moment. "I was so happy when she called and suggested cabinet making!" he said.
Kirsty arranged for Dylan to meet with a local cabinet-making business, Staunton’s Cabinets and Joinery, based on the Fraser Coast. After a little pre-interview pep talk, Dylan’s interview delivered what he was hoping for a handshake and an apprenticeship!
Kirsty supported both Dylan and Staunton’s throughout the process, taking care of the necessary paperwork so Dylan could hit the ground running in his cabinetry apprenticeship as smoothly as possible.
“Kirsty knew exactly what to do—she was amazing at organising everything,” Dylan said.
Now, two months into his four-year apprenticeship, Dylan is thriving. He’s focused, engaged, and loving the chance to both earn and learn. His advice to other young people?
"Take your mum to career expos! You’ll discover there’s heaps more than just university, and maybe you’ll meet someone like Kirsty who can really change your life.”
Congratulations, Dylan! We look forward to seeing you as a fully qualified cabinet maker in four years. And a big thank you to Rob at Staunton’s Cabinets and Joinery for supporting apprentices and investing in the future of the Fraser Coast region.