Support from ParentsNext to upskill helped Ian find employment
When Ian commenced with National Joblink and ParentsNext in August 2023 he wanted to re-enter the workforce and advised his mentor Mandie – “Men should have something to do during the day and be able to bring home money and support their family”. Ian had previously worked in farming, machinery industries and warehousing but had been out of work for some time. Ian was finding it difficult to gain childcare for his youngest child and without a clear pathway towards employment was experiencing financial hardship.
Mandie supported Ian initially through conversations around employment options and identified what upskilling, licences and tickets Ian would require in applying for the work he was interested in. Mandie was able to access funding from the ParentsNext Participation Fund to pay for a Forklift Licence and supported Ian in preparing a new resume along with coaching around interview techniques.
Ian completed his Forklift Licence, applied for and was successful in obtaining full time employment in an agriculture/machinery operation role and was very happy to be working once again. Ian has since advised Mandie that his employer has offered him further opportunities within the company if he gains a Heavy Rigid Truck licence and Mandie is exploring the possibilities of this with Ian to improve his long-term employability prospects.
