The Career Accelerator Programme – bridging the skills gap Narelle Goodfield Head of Accelerate, Scotch Global
In today’s rapidly evolving work landscape, employers are seeking agile employees who can think on their feet, communicate confidently, thrive in diverse teams, and demonstrate cultural fit. While traditional degrees provide valuable technical knowledge, there is a significant gap between industry requirements and the practical skills that set individuals apart. The inaugural Career Accelerator Programme which launched in July, was designed specifically to bridge that gap for post-Year 12 students. This unique programme was created to equip pre-career students (18-25 year-olds) with essential skills that employees demand in today’s workforce. “The feedback we receive from young people is that it is difficult to know which skills to focus on developing and how to stand out in a competitive graduate market,” said Cara Fugill, Head of Scotch Global. “This programme provides them with the important tools they need to launch a successful career and draw attention to themselves for all the right reasons.”
Students had access to business leaders, valuable industry knowledge and direction on their intended career pathways, as well as guidance, mentorship, and important connections for progressive futures. “Whether post-high school students are looking to upskill for an internship or pivot to a new future study regime, our programme can help them achieve their goals”, said Cara. “We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, have greater knowledge of industry options, roles, and opportunities. This programme makes this possible.” “A brilliantly designed and run programme that will be a huge boost to the lives and careers of every participant. Being a mentor was a rewarding opportunity to both support each member of the project team and to help guide the team towards returning a positive contribution to the sponsoring organisations.” – Dr Shaun Ridley, CEO Australian Institute of Management “I was impressed by the incredible talent and innovative solutions offered by the young university students taking part. Their fresh perspective on engaging the next generation in volunteering to address the decline in community sports volunteers is inspiring. For businesses looking to be part of shaping the future and tapping into the potential of tomorrow’s leaders, getting involved with Career Accelerator is an excellent opportunity.” – Carolyn Turner, Head of Philanthropy & Special Projects, WA Cricket
“The learning was challenging, collaborative and highly engaging. The guest speakers were absolutely world class, and I really felt that I received some highly valuable information and direction on how I can learn new skills for the future. As a cohort we became extremely close in a very short period due to the group work activities, gatherings, and residential component. The programme was packed from morning to evening, giving us access to industry leaders and enabling us to pick their brains and extract gold nuggets of advice. I would highly recommend this programme and I would 100% do this again at any stage in my career.” – ***(Anonymous) “I went into this programme having no idea what to expect and I came out with so many new connections and knowledge that will help me for years to come. Even if you are not sure if it will help you or not, take the opportunity because I can guarantee that you will get something out of it. I do not know where my career will take me, however this programme has given me tools to help me get to wherever I want to go.” – ***(Anonymous)
Aydin Hutchison (OSC 202), Taelise Dykstra, Carolyn Turner, Head of Philanthropy and Special Projects (WA Cricket) Lilah Hardisty, Hannah Hawke and Connor Leigh enjoying the Career Accelerator Cocktail Party featuring WA Cricket
What sets us apart is our commitment to connect promising young talent with industry leaders in a relevant manner. Our high-intensity programme demands the best from students, and the outcomes have been nothing short of exceptional. Through immersive experiences, mentorship, and hands-on real-life business projects, the co-educational cohort of 22 students gained the practical expertise and confidence needed to work collaboratively with our industry partners, problem-solve and present findings and solutions in a workplace setting. Five notable business partners joined this new initiative, Multiplex, Nexxis, Rocky Ridge Estate, Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre, and WA Cricket. Each organisation hosted our pre-career students for a look behind the scenes at their organisations and mentored them with an organisational specific painpoint, for the students to solve and share fresh insights.
To learn more about or join us on the next Career Accelerator transformative journey as either a student or business partner take a look at our programme brochure via the QR code or contact Narelle at narelle.goodfield@scotch.wa.edu.au or on 0409 431 079.
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