Published: Nov 22, 2022
For as long as he can remember, Jonathan Britton Goff has wanted to follow in his dad’s footsteps and become a truck driver.
But knowing when to leave school to make his dream a reality was weighing on Jonathan’s mind so the 16-year-old student turned to his career’s advisor at Hunter River High School for help.
“I knew I had to wait until I was old enough to get my truck driver’s license, but I was losing interest in school and thought there could be better way to gain work experience and save some money,” he said.
Jonathan’s career’s advisor recommended the Transition to Work (TtW) program, which is part of the Australian Government’s Workforce Australia initiative. Delivered by not-for-profit employment, training and apprenticeships provider VERTO in the Hunter region, the program provided Jonathan with pre-employment support and connected him with local job opportunities.
With VERTO’s guidance, Jonathan enrolled in a Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations and landed a job at PETstock where he is gaining valuable experience in warehousing and customer service.
“It’s a great stepping stone for me, and I’m sure I will use this experience when I eventually become a truck driver. I’m now earning while I learn, and I couldn’t be happier,” Jonathan said.
VERTO TtW Case Manager Kellie Simmons said, “We are very proud of all Jonathan has achieved since working with VERTO and we can’t wait to see what his future brings.”
VERTO CEO Ron Maxwell said Jonathan was a great example of how the TtW program can help young people build their skills and confidence.
“The TtW employment service helps young people aged 15-24 into work (including apprenticeships and training) or education,” he said.
“Participants receive intensive, pre-employment support to develop practical skills to get a job, connect with education or training, find local job opportunities and connect with relevant local community services.
“As the school year comes to an end, I’d encourage anyone looking for career advice or some help with their career choices to reach out to VERTO – we’re very happy to assist.”
For more information about the TtW program, visit: www.verto.org.au or call 1300 483 786.
About VERTO
VERTO is a community owned, not-for-profit organisation delivering a range of apprenticeship, community support, employment and training services to assist individuals, employers and industries. We can be found in over 60 locations across the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales and Victoria. For more information, visit verto.org.au.
