Shaun was determined to overcome a permanent foot injury he sustained while working as a steel rigger. The injury meant he could no longer work as a rigger, so Shaun had to consider other options.
‘I had a great passion to work either on the water or in the aquatic industry, but my injury made that almost impossible’, Shaun said.
Through his connection with Job Network, Shaun met Ron, his employment consultant. Ron worked with Shaun to help him develop new skills and gain enough confidence to re-enter the workforce.
Ron then put Shaun in touch with Deep Water Aquatics, a Caboolture business that imports aquarium fish and fresh water marine life, run by Catrina and Wayne. After Wayne’s own experience with injury, they knew first hand how difficult re-entry to the workforce can be. They were keen to give Shaun the opportunity to realise his long term ambition while at the same time staffing their business with an enthusiastic new team member.
‘Shaun’s disability did not faze us. We spoke to Shaun at length and realised he would fit the job perfectly’, said Wayne. ‘Shaun is more than capable to handle the workload and his enthusiasm is very impressive’, said Catrina.
Since employing Shaun, Catrina and Wayne have been happy with their decision. ‘We have never looked back. Shaun has become a great asset to our business and a good friend.'
Now Shaun has achieved his goal of working in an area he feels passionate about and his enthusiasm is reflected in the quality of his work: ‘I am thrilled to be back in the workforce in my chosen field…I am really thankful to Job Network and Deep Water Aquatics for helping me’.
If you have a job seeker like Shaun, it is worth investigating what their long held dreams for employment might be. Even though it may be removed from their current work experience, after training and confidence building their new motivation, enthusiasm and commitment could make them the perfect match for a particular employer.
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