Ree is walking the talk and growing skills

“The culture here at TAFE Queensland is great – the trainees (our students) are being supported, the staff are being supported; we’re all looking after one another, making sure we’re all okay,” said Ree.

“A typical day for me at TAFE Queensland involves a number of online meetings with students who are off-campus. We then do group activities, and we do a multitude of things. Sometimes it can be reviewing and critiquing each other’s assessment videos, practical activities, and of course assessments,” Ree explained.

Ree’s initial interest in teaching was generated while working in the retail industry and on-boarding new team members.

“I started out as a retail trainee, originally in a business in Hervey Bay. I really enjoyed that. I went on to complete my Certificate III in Retail Supervision (SIR30312), so I could mentor and train new staff. I then loved that so much I went on to complete my Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122),” Ree began.

“From there I got into the training field, then got offered a job change to become a retail store manager – I did sales, marketing, and ordering. And after going on a six-week holiday, I returned and slightly changed my path once again,” she shared.

Ree joined the Australian Defence Force Cadets in logistics, or was a ‘logo’ as they’d call her.

She began ordering for stores, outfitting the cadets, and eventually went on to work in Amberley. There she relied on her training expertise, assisting with the delivery of training, working with head psychologists and head office to make the cadet training interesting and effective.

More recently, Ree worked for a not-for-profit organisation delivering training, and spent a lot of time in Kingaroy and Cherbourg, building relationships with locals, which has served her well in her new role as a TAFE Queensland teacher.

Speaking with Ree in person, you can appreciate her passion for building relationships and delivering exceptional student experiences.

“It’s really rewarding, and I can’t help but share the good feelings with the campus team here. I feel like we’re making an impact,” said Ree.

And for prospective students who are considering enrolling in a course, Ree suggests calling into a local TAFE Queensland campus and exploring the options available with a team member.

“My advice for anyone even just contemplating training: come in and see the friendly staff - whatever campus you’re closest to, and talk to them about what your dream is, and what they can do to assist you on that path,” Ree offered.